tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16880644566437471732024-03-06T00:23:34.127-08:00Most Beautiful Places On EarthThe most exciting sceneries, travel tips,shopping,nightlife and transportation guides.QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-59038150663582065282011-03-25T22:02:00.001-07:002011-03-25T22:20:05.691-07:00Killarney “Ireland's top town for tourism"<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJO30RNJANwTQqBwgDSvUwFhSQR_zyOPGx7S__s22hacu6Y-ylCw_Xj_T3zjQe_62VJwKlMrVSuuuTXm5RUvGp1oHS_9L9Vee1dZnGd4cie6Ciw3H2b4LbZ59lkwrHRDYsGaTBPU28o5z/s1600/Killarney3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJO30RNJANwTQqBwgDSvUwFhSQR_zyOPGx7S__s22hacu6Y-ylCw_Xj_T3zjQe_62VJwKlMrVSuuuTXm5RUvGp1oHS_9L9Vee1dZnGd4cie6Ciw3H2b4LbZ59lkwrHRDYsGaTBPU28o5z/s400/Killarney3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588251817214402274" border="0" /></a><br />Killarney (Cill Airne in Irish) promotes its-self as the gateway to the Ring of Kerry and has been Ireland's top town for tourism for many years, only losing its crown to Dublin in recent times. The town, although attractive, is outshone by the surrounding countryside with it's mountains, lakes, woods and overall beauty which attracts visitors worldwide.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0AQDsSzuqBQr9TKkrdhPs5eUHyP_wBrNUEALicP0pxDBC0S8iluWFcTxHl8qJZMgaG-zbCLL9_HylY3nuiMLG3hbLyMOt7_IwRWF6nK6zvIvKNC2r3j9ffukjOHj0oB26UipRW7BYpH5B/s1600/Killarney2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0AQDsSzuqBQr9TKkrdhPs5eUHyP_wBrNUEALicP0pxDBC0S8iluWFcTxHl8qJZMgaG-zbCLL9_HylY3nuiMLG3hbLyMOt7_IwRWF6nK6zvIvKNC2r3j9ffukjOHj0oB26UipRW7BYpH5B/s400/Killarney2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588250014647031266" border="0" /></a><br />You can take a ride though part of this beauty by taking a Jaunting Car, the local form of horse drawn carriage. Always take a raincoat as the weather can be unpredictable. Killarney town has much too interest the tourist, not least, the fine restaurants, gift shops and traditional pubs, of which there are many.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Muckross Abbey</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhwvaWMzDFn9SnFhyphenhyphennYdf8gECKfMavGb6HbsGOUha4qooop63BAO6ICXn_dVl_0A_2XtU6Se8lxLENcmv48MXdo9Ze-BCivfKyvHvEPnqC2VNKKcLMKX6l4rDuLSEHHSKlDnUDD85qlB7e/s1600/Muckross_Abbey.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhwvaWMzDFn9SnFhyphenhyphennYdf8gECKfMavGb6HbsGOUha4qooop63BAO6ICXn_dVl_0A_2XtU6Se8lxLENcmv48MXdo9Ze-BCivfKyvHvEPnqC2VNKKcLMKX6l4rDuLSEHHSKlDnUDD85qlB7e/s400/Muckross_Abbey.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588252467730998962" border="0" /></a><br />Founded in 1440 on the site of an earlier monastery, Muckross Abbey has very extensive late Gothic remains. Three of Kerry's four great Gaelic poets are buried inside the Abbey and the fourth (Piaras Feirtear) in the graveyard.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Muckross House</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-3AWArah3aaVwDu03y8KpuK9a8r2EGlNg8UwfCxYe5Vkq03isdMyCUilZI7MI8Ui_Mn-JigraN0fIEsvb4_huZHcDbyF2Ka213gHfHM7YLbJMwmlK1jmcy6A8VDtO5g3SD306ANPAdBRP/s1600/Muckross+House.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-3AWArah3aaVwDu03y8KpuK9a8r2EGlNg8UwfCxYe5Vkq03isdMyCUilZI7MI8Ui_Mn-JigraN0fIEsvb4_huZHcDbyF2Ka213gHfHM7YLbJMwmlK1jmcy6A8VDtO5g3SD306ANPAdBRP/s400/Muckross+House.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588252458772706578" border="0" /></a><br />Built in 1843, the 65 - room Victorian mansion house is one of Irelands leading stately homes. It stands majestically on the lake shore in the National Park, Killarney.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Muckross Gardens</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOYQq2qha4y8olJn5IBKEtR5GyO-FNKr680EkB-ZezSEL3fDwNTY4QOWC6GEgQ6fouhpD0mC0lseG0dVQRi4ImQfOI7rVf6UGi2FmMf1Gc4KAAA2Sov3X6txb_kM5E8pTa_R-_YovR7pjm/s1600/Muckross+Gardens.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOYQq2qha4y8olJn5IBKEtR5GyO-FNKr680EkB-ZezSEL3fDwNTY4QOWC6GEgQ6fouhpD0mC0lseG0dVQRi4ImQfOI7rVf6UGi2FmMf1Gc4KAAA2Sov3X6txb_kM5E8pTa_R-_YovR7pjm/s400/Muckross+Gardens.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588253731717190610" border="0" /></a><br />The Location and botanical collection make this one of the "Greatest Gardens of the World". Extensive areas of natural rockery, water garden, large lawns, arboretum, flowers, trees - surrounded by woodland set among lakes and mountains.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Muckross Traditional Farm</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNg534CCUphyYST1hTGYkH4LzI_IPZK7qKcNj82Ijvyb33NphWpwX8gGhfBouWIs608LLsLVr9GTXFsucm6ugGGnH9xzLbnis7rrgeVnJ3A8y0ZxUYrWtRjOnXG8-Y15R_7gJb1W6q-Kdr/s1600/Muckross+Traditional+Farm.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 265px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNg534CCUphyYST1hTGYkH4LzI_IPZK7qKcNj82Ijvyb33NphWpwX8gGhfBouWIs608LLsLVr9GTXFsucm6ugGGnH9xzLbnis7rrgeVnJ3A8y0ZxUYrWtRjOnXG8-Y15R_7gJb1W6q-Kdr/s400/Muckross+Traditional+Farm.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588252462112433330" border="0" /></a><br />A more recent addition, the Muckross Traditional Farm recreates the houses and activities of rural Ireland prior to electrification in the 1930's. While visiting the magnificent outhouses & farm fields, the labourer's cottage, the blacksmiths forge and having a chat with the men and women at work you are guaranteed to think that you are living in the 1930's.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ross Castle</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2tfbrg2eK55R24KPgZiEmmnwMhZDrRwxKTzkLjgJ6agYJvbjtHICmpXQ5g9-vytJjTGYyFnuWm0V-39kw_53B6h0kdJ8x0Fm7XdOSl5gELLqf_wau-_DkvBbBVKRaT6GlIbE-YgZloI0E/s1600/Ross+Castle.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2tfbrg2eK55R24KPgZiEmmnwMhZDrRwxKTzkLjgJ6agYJvbjtHICmpXQ5g9-vytJjTGYyFnuWm0V-39kw_53B6h0kdJ8x0Fm7XdOSl5gELLqf_wau-_DkvBbBVKRaT6GlIbE-YgZloI0E/s400/Ross+Castle.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588252468495178066" border="0" /></a><br />A medieval tower in Killarney National Park. Situated in a beautiful location on the lake shore. Tours are available.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Aghadoe</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyr7U64YzLm8DrVrxVHdBHgUMNEqbhhHjmwmIOhPs-wUOP-5WVuabut7vZn3LCaGjpe6fsUGAs7sA-Qd1EEnN-b-0vcyhVyOpznWPtHE4kRAugUcIARjjhyLJ8Vm4Tyq671UMprJF5zmFj/s1600/Aghadoe.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyr7U64YzLm8DrVrxVHdBHgUMNEqbhhHjmwmIOhPs-wUOP-5WVuabut7vZn3LCaGjpe6fsUGAs7sA-Qd1EEnN-b-0vcyhVyOpznWPtHE4kRAugUcIARjjhyLJ8Vm4Tyq671UMprJF5zmFj/s400/Aghadoe.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588250001683444562" border="0" /></a><br />Aghadoe was a pagan site superseded by a Christian Monastery established in the 6th or 7th century. Visit the remains of the stone church and a round tower dating from 1027 and enjoy one of Ireland's most beautiful scenes overlooking the Killarney Lakes.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dunloe Ogham Stones</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpkE9Wm6VskQlnsFjp2CZpuiPKvhM3aujuu0hyNHxGcea_u1e55JeT02JuthnaLCeW7EuG3wS9u46xbMhZrkmBEcVN8D4p0NH3SRKPGsyEnNUao0OAXtzXHJDJN2I-tc5WuyQsyksbwAo2/s1600/Dunloe+Ogham+Stones.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpkE9Wm6VskQlnsFjp2CZpuiPKvhM3aujuu0hyNHxGcea_u1e55JeT02JuthnaLCeW7EuG3wS9u46xbMhZrkmBEcVN8D4p0NH3SRKPGsyEnNUao0OAXtzXHJDJN2I-tc5WuyQsyksbwAo2/s400/Dunloe+Ogham+Stones.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588250005121841634" border="0" /></a><br />Between Beaufort village and the Gap of Dunloe can be found a display of Ogham Stones.These were originally the roof of a souterrain or underground passage which collapsed at the end of the last century. Ogham was the earliest form of Irish writing (third century A.D). Ogham stones are usually gravestones and bear the name of the deceased and often details of his descent.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Torc Waterfall</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC9Wu75jL9QK-SkSYuy8xtNjp_p_a_xhdolPzjeei3sUKz5Vka98_IVQlw4btZgDxfavM_ScI7EPDHnEIk0cxrNPt4mYCEsfE1YrJFZ0YoXpoKNaEas8ut0nqXgq3DJGvGK98QS12TQ5O_/s1600/Torc+Waterfall.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC9Wu75jL9QK-SkSYuy8xtNjp_p_a_xhdolPzjeei3sUKz5Vka98_IVQlw4btZgDxfavM_ScI7EPDHnEIk0cxrNPt4mYCEsfE1YrJFZ0YoXpoKNaEas8ut0nqXgq3DJGvGK98QS12TQ5O_/s400/Torc+Waterfall.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588253207046553890" border="0" /></a><br />A short walk up a steep wide footpath leads to the Torc Waterfall, it has a fall of 60 feet/18 metres and the footpath leading up to it offers excellent views over the Killarney lakes. This waterfall is formed by a river which flows from the Punch Bowl high in the mountain and provides a spectacular display after a heavy rainfall.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ladies View</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8TiXcYXzeQHyYuWCfoEXUfY_rsnGvkH9lJ0QInmI191MFtaUcXIcs4eKuABYdgfNVum4wbQvumtWY_agGXocWKuX0EZlQDXBGpnZFeNQGr1gf7QPKiaSXxnxkAhCIgntEwCvAbIA0lDX0/s1600/Ladies+View.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8TiXcYXzeQHyYuWCfoEXUfY_rsnGvkH9lJ0QInmI191MFtaUcXIcs4eKuABYdgfNVum4wbQvumtWY_agGXocWKuX0EZlQDXBGpnZFeNQGr1gf7QPKiaSXxnxkAhCIgntEwCvAbIA0lDX0/s400/Ladies+View.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588251823730164578" border="0" /></a><br />So named after Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting who stopped to look at the scenery from this spot during the Queen's visit to Killarney in 1861. The view towards McGillycuddy's Reeks and the Purple Mountain Range, with The Upper Lake and all its fairy islands below, is truely magnificent.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Gap of Dunloe</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielh_azWbZik7gDPNI-jlJ17KYSvUwevhHxkeoU32jcafjN_7fl1EyCIeeE6LY_h-0rJeQaF8_bNG2R0TiCkH1_hcJNNDmUP6SXYJwJQl5ntSKFylB9wCtzs9HGl30JG-0N04uvQPYrkLK/s1600/Gap+of+Dunloe.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 263px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielh_azWbZik7gDPNI-jlJ17KYSvUwevhHxkeoU32jcafjN_7fl1EyCIeeE6LY_h-0rJeQaF8_bNG2R0TiCkH1_hcJNNDmUP6SXYJwJQl5ntSKFylB9wCtzs9HGl30JG-0N04uvQPYrkLK/s400/Gap+of+Dunloe.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588250006556691042" border="0" /></a><br />Carved by the miltwater of a huge glacier thousands of years ago, the Gap is about seven miles in length with Tomies and Purple mountains on the left and the McGillycuddy Reeks in the right. Many walk or cycle but for the romantic, a journey "Thro' the Gap" in a pony and trap returning by boat via the Killarney Lakes is the only way experience the magic of the Gap - a magnificent unforgettable trip not to be missed.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Meeting of the Waters</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6FxHwHVvncTtsfZmo_ovV4zywK7TkABJF_0vBn927NzfWrTiA9cFSz9htEHZF5iBCOoCACMnvMmktwgdU9PiNZvNkbC1NKZEOgbwMw9ZezIRZKCvnLud9u2BNCUScpFlJNUag7g2XrRJR/s1600/Meeting+of+the+Waters.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6FxHwHVvncTtsfZmo_ovV4zywK7TkABJF_0vBn927NzfWrTiA9cFSz9htEHZF5iBCOoCACMnvMmktwgdU9PiNZvNkbC1NKZEOgbwMw9ZezIRZKCvnLud9u2BNCUScpFlJNUag7g2XrRJR/s400/Meeting+of+the+Waters.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588251830251182130" border="0" /></a><br />This is the point where the waters of the Upper Lake meet those of the Muckross lake (Middle Lake) and Lough Lein at the Old Weir Bridge. Approximately 1 mile past Torc Waterfall on the Kenmare Road, a small car park is provided for visitors - follow the lakeside footpath for about 15 minutes.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cycling Byroads</span><br />Kerry is said to have nearly 2,000 miles of quiet byroads - this is the perfect way to see the beauty of Killarney and Kerry created during the iceage 10,000 years ago. To see Kerry's most awesome sites cyclists, walkers and joggers - take to the byroads<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kissane Mountain Sheep Farm</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOxoQqW0gbZ3yk94u3ogFQuPsGzDeCKRDddle3MwXiOmQcBTcBCLNSzAnpx3eo93ZuNUr0jYZQHkZDEiUtSqoBBOmqaq88iyyjLq-Q_rTXUN4DksaVmfGoNhQ6iS20AbrJEpAAEMowz1d/s1600/Kissane+Mountain+Sheep+Farm.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmOxoQqW0gbZ3yk94u3ogFQuPsGzDeCKRDddle3MwXiOmQcBTcBCLNSzAnpx3eo93ZuNUr0jYZQHkZDEiUtSqoBBOmqaq88iyyjLq-Q_rTXUN4DksaVmfGoNhQ6iS20AbrJEpAAEMowz1d/s400/Kissane+Mountain+Sheep+Farm.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588251823503315426" border="0" /></a><br />On Kissane Sheep Farm you can adopt a sheep. In doing so you help preserve the Irish heritage of mountain sheep in the scenic area of Moll's Gap. Adoptive Parents have free entrance to the farm. Visitors can see sheepdog and shearing demonstrations, take walks and picnics, bootle feed sheep and cuddle lambs. Enjoy the Puzzle Walk and Treasure Trail.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Blue Pool</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikmwRXfC04NC82WKt8wgcEHR9wVfYJKWi04qOsZptdrtQ-XOahc6GEJaCTSeDeVZ45jxmIhC3mswzwLlg5hw4loK7dBmd90ca3EPT72jaL5PMqk3qLcFOtIuMdUbqXnlkhUOKXnMXeu63A/s1600/The+Blue+Pool.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikmwRXfC04NC82WKt8wgcEHR9wVfYJKWi04qOsZptdrtQ-XOahc6GEJaCTSeDeVZ45jxmIhC3mswzwLlg5hw4loK7dBmd90ca3EPT72jaL5PMqk3qLcFOtIuMdUbqXnlkhUOKXnMXeu63A/s400/The+Blue+Pool.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5588253203587701314" border="0" /></a><br />This is a nature reserve and perhaps Killarney's little secret. An enclave known mostly to locals, the blue pool is a magical place - its waters are coloured naturally by local limestone & other rocks. It is the halcyon home of local wildlife - sit quietly for a few moments and see kingfishers catching trout in the local pool and squirrels darting in the trees. Turn left at Molly Darcy's pub on the Muckross road for little bit of heaven.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Craig Cave</span><br />"Ireland's most exciting show cave". Discovered in 1983 and thought to be over a million years old, this natural, all - weather tourist attraction has dramatic sound and lighting effects. It is formed of limestone. The Cave Centre offers a restaurant with home cooking, large souvenir shop, toilets for the disabled, free car and coach park.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Get Around</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">By bicycle</span><br />Cycling is an ideal way to see the Killarney National Park. There are paved bicycle paths in Muckross, Knockreer and Ross Island.<br />If you do not have a bicycle, there are several places in Killarney where you can rent them. O' Sullivans Cycles, located across from the Tourist Office, charges €15 to rent a bike for the day.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Put on your runners...</span><br />Killarney town can easily be covered by foot. It is a mere ten minute walk from the town centre to The Demense at the entrance of the National Park. There are many beautiful sign-posted walks you can follow from there. If you are a parent, there is a new enclosed playground two minutes walk from the main gate by the river, with play areas divided up by age group.QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-89048705496128143922010-09-02T05:52:00.000-07:002010-09-02T06:20:50.638-07:00Bangkok "The Thai capital with most attractive cultural sites"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ1ZKHb_AOvaD-6jh8BX431RVgA51Ly0FEg49baezZDjGHeGG4ISvEtqpdZ2rTWMTi2_WuXEjxxR7ZVZuQj6tMcFFR-BqahPBSqyICE0cTn-6XlQIir5_O0wE7z12QxGxDC_o5agBO7HmD/s1600/bangkok1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 255px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ1ZKHb_AOvaD-6jh8BX431RVgA51Ly0FEg49baezZDjGHeGG4ISvEtqpdZ2rTWMTi2_WuXEjxxR7ZVZuQj6tMcFFR-BqahPBSqyICE0cTn-6XlQIir5_O0wE7z12QxGxDC_o5agBO7HmD/s400/bangkok1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512304412311122082" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Bangkok is excess in all of its unrestrained glory. Bigger, better, more: the city is insatiable, a monster that feeds on concrete, shopping malls and diesel exhaust. The city demands that you be in the present and in the moment, not necessarily for a religious epiphany, but because the city is self-absorbed and superficial, blissfully free of wrinkle-inducing self-reflection. Smiles and sà·nùk (the Thai word for ‘fun’) are the key passports into Bangkok society. A compliment here, a joke there – the demands of social lubrication in this megalopolis are more akin to a small village than an anonymous city and a necessity for survival.<div id=":h3" class="ii gt"><div id=":h4"> <div><br /></div><div>As Bangkok forcefully kneads out of you all demands for order and predictability, you’ll understand the famous Thai smile. It is the metaphorical brakes on the urban overdrive. Packed into these concrete corridors are religious spectacle, unapologetic consumerism and multi-flavoured hedonism – corrupting and purifying souls within footsteps of each other. A tragicomic confluence of human desires and aspirations best viewed through a detached smile.</div> <div><br /></div><div>Of the famous and infamous attractions, Bangkok’s best feature is its intermingling of opposites. A modern world of affluence orbits around a serene traditional core. Step outside the four-star hotels into a typical Siamese village where taxi drivers knock back energy drinks and upcountry transplants grill chicken on a streetside barbecue. Hop the Skytrain to the glitzy shopping malls where trust-fund babies examine luxury brands as carefully as the housewives inspect produce at the open-air markets. Or appreciate the attempts at enlightenment at the city’s famous temples and doorstep shrines, or simple acts of kindness amid the urban bustle.</div> <div><br /></div><div>You can jump between all of these worlds – wining and hobnobbing at a chic club, eating at a streetside market, getting plucked and pummelled into something more beautiful, or sweating profusely on a long unplanned march. Bangkok is an urban connoisseur’s dream come true.</div> <div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwS0ljG81lTf7utflYMRdzbc6bvX4McjqXXZFzhThLfnSB0Co7mL4CO_A3y-73NbC4cTYu0I_zMlvXvnstkKG1tlLStbJZNR0E2h1cY3Y4GXt5e9hMbCuwEX6d8kp69X54FHy6rB0sz6FK/s1600/Wat+Phra+Kaew.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwS0ljG81lTf7utflYMRdzbc6bvX4McjqXXZFzhThLfnSB0Co7mL4CO_A3y-73NbC4cTYu0I_zMlvXvnstkKG1tlLStbJZNR0E2h1cY3Y4GXt5e9hMbCuwEX6d8kp69X54FHy6rB0sz6FK/s400/Wat+Phra+Kaew.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512303248434363954" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>Located in the grounds of the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew is among the top attractions, attracting tourists with its stunning temples, towering golden chedi, ornately decorated interiors and the much reverred though diminutive Emerald Buddha. The palace, although not as impressive as the surrounding temples, is an interesting example of new-Baroque architecture. Fine murals are also on display, and there is a decorations and coins museum on site. It’s the one site all tourists get to while in Bangkok. </div> <div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Wat Po<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwHp8YsopqtDVri81hfLUhuwrw5WyqBqqf7nQAHM9QGRDYDmPa081njo_i2QZyJk5hKLulmf2RphL-2sK7jUUTcwinOgXU8BNKzpbcS2fykWjOjDKDIgb-rbzu3qQZ1-z856QSR8RxxfU_/s1600/Wat+Po.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwHp8YsopqtDVri81hfLUhuwrw5WyqBqqf7nQAHM9QGRDYDmPa081njo_i2QZyJk5hKLulmf2RphL-2sK7jUUTcwinOgXU8BNKzpbcS2fykWjOjDKDIgb-rbzu3qQZ1-z856QSR8RxxfU_/s400/Wat+Po.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512303257299941682" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>Located beside the neo-baroque Grand Palace, Wat Po is a complex of stunning temples with intermingling spires of intricate and ornate design. The most outstanding attraction is the massive, 40 meter reclining Buddha which is one of the most impressive and certainly the largest in all of Thailand. Also noted for its ancient school of massage. </div> <div>Location: 2 Sanamchai Road, Phra Nakhon, (02) 225 9595, open daily 08:00 to 21:00, fee: Thais: free, foreigners: 50 baht, after 6pm. fee: Thais: 50 Baht, foreigners: 200 baht.</div><div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Wat Arun<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBs02uL7tt2N4-d3kxI5zJ9vD5DgY5cWS8vveN7GaDcxdNkpfKm8UJIC6hniu3svadTaMxT-Oz0i1sHsayZ9NCbOQKlnjHd8NB8gUBGMmzb_cO9scmcnG89hUtBfz_ZrNtA70tbz07skyJ/s1600/Wat+Arun.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBs02uL7tt2N4-d3kxI5zJ9vD5DgY5cWS8vveN7GaDcxdNkpfKm8UJIC6hniu3svadTaMxT-Oz0i1sHsayZ9NCbOQKlnjHd8NB8gUBGMmzb_cO9scmcnG89hUtBfz_ZrNtA70tbz07skyJ/s400/Wat+Arun.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512303241805620962" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div> with its spectacular river side location and the soaring 82 meter spire set right in the centre of the temple, Wat Arun is another of Bangkok’s top attractions. It’s also one of the oldest, pre-dating the founding of Bangkok when the original capital was set up in Thon Buri across the river. Makes an excellent sunset backdrop from river boats. Located opposite Wat Po, catch boats from Tha Tien pier behind the Grand Palace. </div> <div>Location: 34 Arun Amarin Road, Wat Arun, Bangkokyai, (02) 891 2185, open: daily except Wed. and public holidays, 08:30 to 17:30, fee: Thais: free/ foreigners: 50 baht.</div><div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">The National Museum<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEYfMn2TqfMsPYGxzq8m7WDhAawo_QSwjq_fgsqjOLryaZSRumdzDwmyXD-guIMk4rbINetYv7dxRvz4idC0wtJ9BXFv601Zj4xNDVRPD-G4C6zFcShaeubbe8y4b8Pa2iwWrdAghVATO0/s1600/The+National+Museum.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEYfMn2TqfMsPYGxzq8m7WDhAawo_QSwjq_fgsqjOLryaZSRumdzDwmyXD-guIMk4rbINetYv7dxRvz4idC0wtJ9BXFv601Zj4xNDVRPD-G4C6zFcShaeubbe8y4b8Pa2iwWrdAghVATO0/s400/The+National+Museum.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512302510367364754" border="0" /></a><br /></div> <div>Home to a large and impressive collection of Thai art spanning many eras. It’s probably one of the most important repositories of Southeast Asian antiquities in the world with many impressive items on display covering Buddhist art spanning 1500 years. There are also displays on the history of Thailand, with information in English. Large enough to keep you occupied all afternoon, the museum has a wide ranging collection of artefacts covering all aspects of ancient and recent Thai history. </div> <div>Located beside the Grand Palace opposite the Sanam Luang ground. Na Phrathat Road, Phra Borommaharatchawang, Phra Nakhon, (02) 224 1333, open: Wed. to Sun. 09:00 to 16:00, fee: Thais: 30 baht, foreigners: 200 baht.</div> <div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Vimanmek Teak Mansion and Dusit Throne Hall<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizuK18xpIVIdZhXvVPVgCsJZYQGezfAVQMkaehNW_3qCsp0RoANkxjAu1bjpHCJEIzLQbl1k01qEVLf-c_9ugGMIx3ymkiSxumOZyGZ482YofqsIsgYmKkX-EEa5RNdzwkt9Am4kvbpcdF/s1600/Dusit+Throne+Hall.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizuK18xpIVIdZhXvVPVgCsJZYQGezfAVQMkaehNW_3qCsp0RoANkxjAu1bjpHCJEIzLQbl1k01qEVLf-c_9ugGMIx3ymkiSxumOZyGZ482YofqsIsgYmKkX-EEa5RNdzwkt9Am4kvbpcdF/s400/Dusit+Throne+Hall.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512300715314306866" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>The world’s largest teak construction, located within the complex of the Dusit Palace. The impressive architecture, design features and exemplary works of art are some of the finest examples in the country, while the photograph collection of King Bhumibol is an interesting insight into the lives of the Thai monarchy. Well preserved, it offers a good glimpse into Royal life during the reign of King Chulalongkorn in the late Nineteenth Century when Siam was at its zenith. Located opposite Dusit Zoo, in the leafy Dusit suburb, easily reached from Khao San Road and the Grand Palace. The adjacent neo-classical Throne Hall was one of King Chulalongkorn’s European inspired fancies and is used for ceremonies, such as the King’s 60 year reign celebrations where hundreds of thousands packed the arcade in front, it looks impressive but is off limits to the public. </div> <div>Location: 16 Ratchowithi Road, Dusit, (02) 628 6300-9, ext. 5120-5121, open: daily 09:30 to 15:30, fee: Thai: adult 75 baht/children 20 baht, foreigners 100 baht.</div><div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Jim Thompson’s House<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWig7S4tUZVGc-x7-Bvr9Z0ECLjtoqtY_Z-SwEj47LzunZM0Zh6hgAcNs31Gbompf8wT8DhhAGP7C6nOgW8o8pAmRKi1QQmJpwSEi-yXgfrtbmeSgJK0oBew1cPrhOPZVtWRPGhz7tJQm/s1600/Jim+Thompson%E6%8A%AF+House.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizWig7S4tUZVGc-x7-Bvr9Z0ECLjtoqtY_Z-SwEj47LzunZM0Zh6hgAcNs31Gbompf8wT8DhhAGP7C6nOgW8o8pAmRKi1QQmJpwSEi-yXgfrtbmeSgJK0oBew1cPrhOPZVtWRPGhz7tJQm/s400/Jim+Thompson%E6%8A%AF+House.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512301626716365154" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div> Jim Thompson is credited with the international revival of the Thai silk industry. His Bangkok home is one of the best preserved examples of a traditional Thai residence, with an outstanding collection of art and antiques from throughout Southeast Asia. Located near Siam Square (National Stadium BTS station). </div> <div>Location: 6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Road, Siam Square area, (02) 216 7368, open: daily 09:00 to 17:00, fee: Thai and foreigners. adult: 100 baht, students: 50 baht.</div><div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Royal Barges Museum<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6xbTVwGuT9l3RHhmmSNPMb9LK845VqfSjmyHf12UxMxEiIcI48bMckyBN4vCZftbUeO0DZ2F3dCrkPPzauXpfMozu5mKT55NHco4m4E9sQlS2zzb4Gfc1vGRz-BukxyeMCNb4iOLyfoX7/s1600/Royal+Barges+Museum.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 261px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6xbTVwGuT9l3RHhmmSNPMb9LK845VqfSjmyHf12UxMxEiIcI48bMckyBN4vCZftbUeO0DZ2F3dCrkPPzauXpfMozu5mKT55NHco4m4E9sQlS2zzb4Gfc1vGRz-BukxyeMCNb4iOLyfoX7/s400/Royal+Barges+Museum.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512302489686379266" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div> This museum is home to the spectacular barges that are used by royalty for very special ceremonies. They are astoundingly ornate and more curious in appearance than beautiful, but certainly worth a look. Riverfront, near Pingklao bridge.</div> <div>Location: Arun Amarin Road, Siriraj, Bangkoknoi, across the river, (02) 424 0004, open: daily 09:00 to 17:00, closed: 31 Dec. to 1 Jan. and 12 to 14 April, fee: Thai 20 baht, foreigners 100 baht.</div><div><br /></div> <div style="font-weight: bold;">Thon Buri canals (trip)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6rpmHFcdstDSSMQDwnEAhKcrnwYO_hKP10Z9IqiNij7zx4SY_yOlc2TVvFF8aEerScAOQaQHCVjTvOzrIbFKHO5xtp4venCec6Y_DtAet3krgeKu1L9WZ1oiwjc6v0Pp-5RH0AnB7WxE/s1600/Thon+Buri+canals.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6rpmHFcdstDSSMQDwnEAhKcrnwYO_hKP10Z9IqiNij7zx4SY_yOlc2TVvFF8aEerScAOQaQHCVjTvOzrIbFKHO5xtp4venCec6Y_DtAet3krgeKu1L9WZ1oiwjc6v0Pp-5RH0AnB7WxE/s400/Thon+Buri+canals.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512303234661619170" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>Trip along Bangkok’s canal is one great way to see a number of the major sites from an interesting perspective, without the hassle of having to navigate Bangkok’s city streets. A leisurely cruise along one of Bangkok’s water ways affords passengers a glimpse inside the daily life of locals. Boats can be boarded from any pier along the canals. The Chao Phraya Express boat passes many of the city’s major sites. The quiet canals of Thon Buri, across the river are a world away from modern Bangkok and show how Bangkok once was when it was described as the ‘Venice of the East’ a century ago. </div> <div>Organised tours (boat trip): 1 hour: Thai - 1,000 baht/boat (6 people) / foreigner – 600 baht/person. 1.30 hours: Thai - 1,300 baht/boat (6 people) / foreigner – 800 baht/person. 2 hours: Thai - 1,500 baht/boat (6 people) / foreigner – 1,000 baht/person.</div> <div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Chinatown<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvB3F2xovYROh7D6fjX3ZFy27F7Lb5ZoN_tsiwHsgd0Ft_pLCfd1kg8pG73YOumt38eFh9-S4fAYNgGSSbqhoauI3-Bhq8brMONZy8C_Rr6GlKZhmCw5DfjKdmzGwiS-Q0UqlLrNZtlKq1/s1600/chinatown-bangkok2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvB3F2xovYROh7D6fjX3ZFy27F7Lb5ZoN_tsiwHsgd0Ft_pLCfd1kg8pG73YOumt38eFh9-S4fAYNgGSSbqhoauI3-Bhq8brMONZy8C_Rr6GlKZhmCw5DfjKdmzGwiS-Q0UqlLrNZtlKq1/s400/chinatown-bangkok2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512300707230691042" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>For some of the best in Chinese food, a bustling and diverse market and fine examples of architecture, Chinatown is an experience not to be missed. Although the streets are jam-packed with stalls and shops and crowded with people at the best of times, the sweat lost will be worth it for a truly new experience. Chinatown has the biggest concentration of gold shops in the city, but you will also find a host of ornaments, whole sale jewellery, textiles, antiques, musical instruments and ancient Chinese medicine shops. There are some good and not so good guesthouses and hotels. Trty wandering down some of the quieter lanes to witness an unchanged Bangkok. (Hua Lampong Metro station and some walking). Open: 24 hours, admission: free</div> <div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Khao San road<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiimofJCPfs-TSrmK-w6vkZ-daIEGdvJHgrX-OVMVjUXPGw2jQdZSI5K08BHJ6j3P_hn-YMhnQOKoJv0C3RvWUtItQQkqBYI2EQD4P-RvR2Y3ES3IiqgIE5H1Bm8naCCW4iapYOaiE7o8vj/s1600/Khao+San+road.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiimofJCPfs-TSrmK-w6vkZ-daIEGdvJHgrX-OVMVjUXPGw2jQdZSI5K08BHJ6j3P_hn-YMhnQOKoJv0C3RvWUtItQQkqBYI2EQD4P-RvR2Y3ES3IiqgIE5H1Bm8naCCW4iapYOaiE7o8vj/s400/Khao+San+road.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512301635986373170" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>This is the bohemian and backpacker capital of Asia. There is a constant flow of tourists from every conceivable corner of the world as well as ‘out there’ Thais who come and go in a never ending stream. People watching is taken to a new extreme here with 24-hour performances from random passers-by. The area is packed with tourist agents, bars, restaurants and nightclubs, while the street stalls offer a good selection in cheap clothing and counterfeit goods. If you really want to go the whole hog while travelling, Khaosan is the place to have your fake dreadlocks sewn on. </div> <div>Located near the Grand Palace. Open: 24 hours, admission: free</div><div>More on the Khao San road</div><div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Siam square<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcPBMIAFGmkbnTa0uBG8xQKmu-9_ITUwT4qXWQBoEjNHnzIr7dEFqSrClUoxDSnL8ZcG5niNXnzZYu8Qsf5suKTf4W_blSveYvAuOHWm1mw5zX6RF7Ds4XTkAs51XSPSQLcb4E0rf3ClhY/s1600/Siam+square.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcPBMIAFGmkbnTa0uBG8xQKmu-9_ITUwT4qXWQBoEjNHnzIr7dEFqSrClUoxDSnL8ZcG5niNXnzZYu8Qsf5suKTf4W_blSveYvAuOHWm1mw5zX6RF7Ds4XTkAs51XSPSQLcb4E0rf3ClhY/s400/Siam+square.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512302493504181794" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>A modern cosmopolitan area which makes a good effort at being the ‘Times Square’ of Bangkok. The bustling hub is packed full of large shopping malls with the best in designer names, upmarket outlets, restaurants and bars, cyber cafés and fast-food outlets - you name it, Siam square’s got it. It’s a popular hangout spot for the young and trendy, who use the area as a large catwalk. (Siam BTS station). Open: daily, admission: free</div> <div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Patpong<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh06W4qGRvhskXdY3Fw4nCkVHL7YQhg74kr1HTcs8G37QQ2icWc_Yn4R4x-E6RkpCk5Vie_YzQbKpidoFBtk5aE4ZuoL49-LzK5WmVL2HCc6V_Ly7bKMEn-pc2x2lDDgLLQTxawfkCOTNY8/s1600/patpong.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh06W4qGRvhskXdY3Fw4nCkVHL7YQhg74kr1HTcs8G37QQ2icWc_Yn4R4x-E6RkpCk5Vie_YzQbKpidoFBtk5aE4ZuoL49-LzK5WmVL2HCc6V_Ly7bKMEn-pc2x2lDDgLLQTxawfkCOTNY8/s400/patpong.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512301646745236482" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>Despite being one of Bangkok’s original red light districts, Patpong attracts loads of tourists to its market with its vast array of fake designer goods and prices that are hard to beat. The goods are of decent quality and most people will probably only realise their lacking authenticity on close inspection. It’s an excuse for the more curious to pop in on the go go bars and ‘ping pong sex shows’ upstairs, most leave them disappointed by the boring shows and expensive beer.Silom area, (Sala Daeng BTS station.) Open daily: 18.00 to 01.00, admission: free</div> <div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Red Light districts<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheQeeJOc00coyGJbCM-ThlE1ogJq2Ssg1JgE8octqOEXwxKON49bklzN98VAmqJUIt_Hgz0holcMPfvOEVeY6HhrfPqVz76Q5W9GNat__dtfIsQgowNqkDPF7wGlHP5xZN-BaxRqxmyOc5/s1600/Red+Light+districts.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheQeeJOc00coyGJbCM-ThlE1ogJq2Ssg1JgE8octqOEXwxKON49bklzN98VAmqJUIt_Hgz0holcMPfvOEVeY6HhrfPqVz76Q5W9GNat__dtfIsQgowNqkDPF7wGlHP5xZN-BaxRqxmyOc5/s400/Red+Light+districts.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512302481776418466" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>It is not certain why so many tourists feel that it is a must to check out the seedy red light districts that Bangkok has become so famous for, but it is common for all types of tourists to hit some sort of sex show while in town. There are three distinct areas, including Patpong, Nana plaza and Soi Cowboy, which at night turn into centres for all sex related activities, (Sala Daeng, Nana and Asoke BTS stations respectively). Open: from early evening to early morning, admission: free</div> <div style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Chatujak weekend market<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje5Lw0EBcygkU6vRu3275WkMMB5_lbv4yh_kBP3Vz6cjxXs3tUoKO9uwohzBtJkwmVR9xGrRTwW_4GSMWEWIVcAu5gzGND6jKwbeA5rp7xYLzY9ku9dhoEvx0c5SkvJYegt5p8wi00stlJ/s1600/Chatujak+weekend+market.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje5Lw0EBcygkU6vRu3275WkMMB5_lbv4yh_kBP3Vz6cjxXs3tUoKO9uwohzBtJkwmVR9xGrRTwW_4GSMWEWIVcAu5gzGND6jKwbeA5rp7xYLzY9ku9dhoEvx0c5SkvJYegt5p8wi00stlJ/s400/Chatujak+weekend+market.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512300700430945106" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>This crammed labyrinth of market stalls is hard work, but it’s completely worth it for the range of offerings and jaw-dropping bargains to be had. With everything from Thai handicrafts and souvenirs to the hippest of second-hand clothing, Chatujak is the place to fulfil your heart’s shopping desires. Drink plenty of water, take regular breaks and you Open: Saturdays and Sundays, 06.00 to 17.00, admission: free may just be able to keep going until you’ve shopped the place bare, (Mo Chit BTS station). Open: Saturdays and Sundays, 06.00 to 17.00, Admission: free</div> <div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Suan Pakkad Palace<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdavqau5fCvoQUCCvoKcF3ygwTivtAZaleuYD0rBXBOS3FbG_I39jPjCjd0Vk6GT9QZa3fB3vOHfL9emnG9sODMC7AC6W5CVd7dLn0rjhUpDjNPaitvSAQE_-pPin1OWiJ0C6N3iOyaQ4R/s1600/Suan+Pakkad+Palace.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdavqau5fCvoQUCCvoKcF3ygwTivtAZaleuYD0rBXBOS3FbG_I39jPjCjd0Vk6GT9QZa3fB3vOHfL9emnG9sODMC7AC6W5CVd7dLn0rjhUpDjNPaitvSAQE_-pPin1OWiJ0C6N3iOyaQ4R/s400/Suan+Pakkad+Palace.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512302506520542242" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>A curious little museum tucked away in pretty gardens among the bustle near Siam Square. Meaning Cabbage Patch Palace, Suan Pakkad was built as a residence for a Rama V era princess and has been well preserved as an indication of regal Nineteenth century Thai living, containing many interesting items form the era, along with an interesting collection of Thai musical instruments from Prince Paributra. Conveniently located, a good time filler, (BTS Phaya Thai). </div> <div>Location: 352-354 Sri Ayudhya Road, Rajathevi, (02) 246 1775-6 #Ext. 229, open: daily 09:00 to 16:00, fee: Thai adults 50 baht, children 20 baht / foreign adults 100 baht, children 50 baht.</div><div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2nLsjsPFcnfRtEzqoGc3HCmE3bWm82jcS1DPqVmjNf-fOJzY_v7z9edT8wiefK0ygVZ6hBSIfQaKQbGD-iNIFd4cA3T58L91BTCHiRkXsDhj7Ox1g-vB0bRx9UUohpdj8Cz_nsEhoz1ro/s1600/Wat+Suthat.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 296px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2nLsjsPFcnfRtEzqoGc3HCmE3bWm82jcS1DPqVmjNf-fOJzY_v7z9edT8wiefK0ygVZ6hBSIfQaKQbGD-iNIFd4cA3T58L91BTCHiRkXsDhj7Ox1g-vB0bRx9UUohpdj8Cz_nsEhoz1ro/s400/Wat+Suthat.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512303263840033170" border="0" /></a><br /></div> <div>This is one of the more important impressive of Bangkok’s many temples and a chance to experience a temple compound without too many tourists. Nearby is the recently renovated Giant Swing - a bizarre and unique sight used in Brahman rites festivals. In the Grand Palace vicinity near the Democracy monument., Open: 08:00 to 18:00 daily, admission: free.</div> <div style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Golden Mount</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdtDVpxkJzZ_tGPT-gG6XX-85pjPVxMEaFMz4PFLB4h7Zd3YqAUmAF2WdWQmlwy__YWD-Xw0A4gUtF_gFy4mLUlYAihZvcmOxxzq8lRY3hoHuanWQG9IuqKLSSZljaJbu1C5Png8MoJzHy/s1600/Golden+Mount.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 290px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdtDVpxkJzZ_tGPT-gG6XX-85pjPVxMEaFMz4PFLB4h7Zd3YqAUmAF2WdWQmlwy__YWD-Xw0A4gUtF_gFy4mLUlYAihZvcmOxxzq8lRY3hoHuanWQG9IuqKLSSZljaJbu1C5Png8MoJzHy/s400/Golden+Mount.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512301619596233074" border="0" /></a><br />This was once the highest point in the city until skyscrapers arrived in the second half of the twentieth century. Built on the remains of a collapsed giant pagoda, this elevated temple offers magnificent views of the city, and is attached to Wat Saket, it supposedly holds a Buddha relic. Open: 08:00 to 17:00 daily, admission: 50 baht.</div> <div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Wat Traimit<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKCEwFFg8g7o6x_Q2xqmiTxmldezItT-vqxBvXXTYN760PLW2VZ62l8F66GYHEYYmgkZwpQcND0m0eiEGOUmFcTVZF_sALcma2VmBVMQJ0OFMYD4HFFM63QbizS2P2hCrykZIZqk7_Bqw/s1600/Wat+Traimit.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKCEwFFg8g7o6x_Q2xqmiTxmldezItT-vqxBvXXTYN760PLW2VZ62l8F66GYHEYYmgkZwpQcND0m0eiEGOUmFcTVZF_sALcma2VmBVMQJ0OFMYD4HFFM63QbizS2P2hCrykZIZqk7_Bqw/s400/Wat+Traimit.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512303869133491874" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>yet another temple, noted for its 5 tonne, three meter tall solid gold Buddha which curiously lay hidden beneath a stucco cover for centuries, saving it from marauding Burmese. The gold was accidentally discovered 40 years ago while it was being moved and became damaged. Gets busy with tourists.Location: near Hua Lampong station (Metro station), 661 Chaoren Krung Road, Talad Noi, Samphanthawong.Open: 08:00 to 17:00 daily, admission: free.</div> <div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Lumpini Park<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu3y-rYhhtxvSnXgeZ7R0Df4LAKSHf734MhCJbg1aaS5JS2MFUyZn2I1XiNp_1V-EClh_AayMh8hp7Cw2eweZ-vzqnHWD-QH8kJlnHSuwZjVg_1zsm4ttJp5wf7iRJtTJ1itt4-yAh6pq9/s1600/Lumpini+Park.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu3y-rYhhtxvSnXgeZ7R0Df4LAKSHf734MhCJbg1aaS5JS2MFUyZn2I1XiNp_1V-EClh_AayMh8hp7Cw2eweZ-vzqnHWD-QH8kJlnHSuwZjVg_1zsm4ttJp5wf7iRJtTJ1itt4-yAh6pq9/s400/Lumpini+Park.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512301639013883682" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>Located in the heart of the city, this expansive area is a nice escape from the city madness. Early morning in the park, you will find hundreds of residents out for their morning yoga, tai chi or jog. There are a number of Thai restaurants and boats are available for hire for a peaceful cruise on the lake in the heart of the park, (Lumphini Metro station). </div> <div>Location: Rama IV Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan, (02) 252 7006, open: 08:00 to 21:30 daily, admission: free.</div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Outskirt Bangkok</div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Floating Market<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeA4buV4NSEgrB_mhR6dyDOzti4qDTeGtMfbF46Vtn24lfsH-5AiQDfSZPGmZtgJOfoV1XZCSeQ3eTojtubky6Bwrotw0Xd3l-_Ho7VWtdbE0Rq_cSn6yTUGTJzlU6-vkBH5mb-81j6Prf/s1600/Floating+Market.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 282px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeA4buV4NSEgrB_mhR6dyDOzti4qDTeGtMfbF46Vtn24lfsH-5AiQDfSZPGmZtgJOfoV1XZCSeQ3eTojtubky6Bwrotw0Xd3l-_Ho7VWtdbE0Rq_cSn6yTUGTJzlU6-vkBH5mb-81j6Prf/s400/Floating+Market.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512300724753358354" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>Most tours include the delightfully chaotic Floating Market on itineraries but its an early start to get to the area in Damnoen Saduak, an hours drive southwest of the city and an organised tour is the best option. The sights, sounds, smells and array of goods on offer can be slightly overwhelming, but you won’t find this experience many places in the world. Although quite touristy, it reflects a typical central Thai market that uses the many canals instead of streets for commerce.</div> <div>Tel: (032) 241 392, admission: free, one hour boat trip 50 Baht per person.</div><div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Ancient City<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIggvMZT1lfWRXy-wkIUXdl5agZeJ7ZMTX74b-uXj5mo0rrps89ebzA6EVh9JwFVRJlz9aJiAcHwJOrqd5BNVGwAFvliiia0r2Hqjo0-patKr-_Te5ZtmPLz7sT7vsTG-bnQY8cKrpwlxY/s1600/ancient+city.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIggvMZT1lfWRXy-wkIUXdl5agZeJ7ZMTX74b-uXj5mo0rrps89ebzA6EVh9JwFVRJlz9aJiAcHwJOrqd5BNVGwAFvliiia0r2Hqjo0-patKr-_Te5ZtmPLz7sT7vsTG-bnQY8cKrpwlxY/s400/ancient+city.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512300691737420818" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>Offers tourists a step back in time and almost perfect replicas of Thailand’s most historically renowned sites and monuments. In some cases original structures have been moved here and others were rebuilt from plans, to recreate originals that have long since disappeared. This open-air museum is located amid tranquil lakes and beautiful gardens and is a great way to see historical sites from all over Thailand without travelling! </div> <div>Located in Samut Prakarn, an hour south of the city by taxi, but worth it - highly recommended. 296/1 Sukhumvit Road, Bangpoo, Samut Prakan 10280, (02) 709 1644, open: daily 08:00 to 17:00, fee: foreign adults 300 baht, children 150 baht, Thai adults 150 baht, children 75 baht.</div> <div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Koh Kret</div><div>About an hour’s drive from the city centre, Koh Kret is a small, picturesque island and a place of great historical value, dating back to the Mon settlement of the 6th century. It is the perfect getaway from the overwhelming buzz of Bangkok, with ceramic artists who open their workshops to visitors and sell their beautiful designs on-site.</div> <div>Open: always </div><div>admission: free</div><div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Get Around</div><div style="font-weight: bold;">By car</div><div>Bangkok is notorious for its massive traffic jams, and rightly so. In addition, traffic is chaotic and motorcyclists seemingly suicidal. Therefore, most tourists consider driving in Bangkok a nightmare, and it is highly recommended that you stick to public transport and not try to drive yourself around.</div> <div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">By skytrain</div><div>The Bangkok Skytrain (BTS, pronounced bee-tee-et in Thai but also rót fai fáa or just skytrain) deserves a visit simply for the Disneyland space-ageness of it. Built in a desperate effort to ease Bangkok's insane traffic and pollution, the Skytrain covers most of downtown and is especially convenient for visiting the Siam Square area. There are two lines: the light green Sukhumvit line which travels along Sukhumvit road and then goes up Phayonyothin to northern Bangkok, where it terminates near the Chatuchak Weekend Market (N8), and the red Silom line, which travels from the Silom area, interchanges with the Sukhumvit line at Siam Square (C) and ends at National Stadium, right next to MBK. There isn't, unfortunately, a station near Banglampu District (aka the Khao San Road area), but the river ferry connects between Tha Banglampu and Tha Sathorn, served by Saphan Taksin (S6) on the Silom line from the morning till around 6-7PM.</div> <div>You must have 5 or 10 baht coins to purchase Skytrain tickets from the vending machines near the entrance, so hold on to them. Fares range from 15 to 40 baht depending upon how many zones you are traveling. Consult the map (in English) near each ticket machine. If you do not have coins, queue for change from the staff at the booth. If you are in town for several days (and/or going to make several visits during next 30 days), weigh your options and consider a rechargeable stored-value card (from 100 baht, with a 30-baht refundable deposit and a 30 baht non-refundable card cost), a "ride all you like" tourist pass (from 120 baht/day) or a multiple ride pass of 20 trips or more to any zone (20 trips cost 440 baht, plus 30 baht refundable deposit for a rechargeable card valid for 5 years). They will certainly save you time, scrambling for coins, and maybe even money. Check for information with the English speaking staff.</div> <div>Four stations are fully accessible to wheelchair users, plus one station, On Nut, is accessible only on the arrival side. The other fully accessible stations are Asok/Sukhumvit, Siam, Chong Nonsi and Mo Chit. To proceed to concourse level in these stations, you can use the lift - press the call button and an attendant will come and get you. At On Nut stations on the departures side, the attendant will help you also to get to platform level through the escalator since the elevator can be used only to get to intercourse level. Siam Station is also accessible independently through the linked Siam Paragon department store.</div> <div>For more information, contact the Bangkok Mass Transit System at Tel: 0 2617 7340, 0 2617 6000 or visit</div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">By metro</div><div>Bangkok Metro (MRT, pronunced em-ar-tee in Thai but also rót fai tai din) finally opened in July 2004. The Blue Line connects the central Hualamphong railway station (1) to the northern Bang Sue station (18), with interchanges to the Skytrain at Silom/Sala Daeng (3/S2), Sukhumvit/Asok (7/E4) and Chatuchak/Mo Chit (15/N8). You can also transfer to north/northeast-bound SRT trains at the northern terminus Bang Sue. The metro is much less used by tourists than the Sky Train but can be very useful. The terminus at Hualamphong station provides good access to Chinatown and many of the main tourist sites. The Silom station is about 200 meters away from the "Patpong" market and nightlife area.</div> <div>Metro tickets are not interchangeable with Skytrain tickets. Rides start from 15 baht and are based on distance; pre-paid cards of up to 1000 baht are also available. For single ride fares, a round plastic token is used. It's electronic: simply wave it by the scanner to enter; deposit it in a slot by the exit gate leave.</div> <div>The metro stop for the Chatuchak Weekend Market is not Chatuchak Park but one stop farther at Kamphaeng Phet (16). The latter drops you right inside the market.</div><div>All metro stations are fully accessible to wheelchair users. If the elevator has been put out of service, just ask the security staff present at every station and an attendant will come and get you to help you to deal with all the process of buying tickets and get to the train platform level.</div> <div>For more information call 0 2624 5200 or visit for further information.</div><div>Note that at present bag-checks take place at the entrance to each station, although it is usually nothing more than a quick peek inside unless you are looking particularly </div> <div style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">By Boat</div><div>Canal boats also serve Khlong Saen Saeb, one of Bangkok's many canals (khlong). They're cheap and immune to Bangkok's notorious traffic jams, but mostly used by locals who use these water taxis to commute to work and school and shopping, so you get to see the 'backside' of the neighborhoods, so to speak. They're also comparatively safe--just watch your step when boarding and disembarking (they don't stop at the pier for long) and do not let the water get into your eyes.</div> <div>To prevent splashes, the boats are equipped with little curtains that you can raise by pulling on a string, but they have to be lowered at every stop so people can clamber on board. Pay the fare (14-22 baht) to the fearless helmet-wearing ticket collectors who clamber around on the outside of the boat, ducking at bridges, as it barrels down the canal. The canal runs parallel to Petchaburi Road, and provides the easiest access from the city center to the Golden Mount. There's a boarding pier across from the Central World Plaza under the bridge where Ratchadamri crosses the khlong near Petchburi, and piers now even have (tiny) signs in English. Be aware that for journeys going beyond Pratunam, passengers have to change boats at Pratunam. Hold on to your ticket.</div> <div>The only station missing a sign in English is the stop at The Mall in Bangkapi, and it's not obvious that it's a mall from the canal boat!</div><div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Typical "long tail" river taxi</div> <div>Finally, for trips outside the set routes, you can hire a long-tail river taxi at any major pier. These are fairly expensive and will attempt to charge as much as 500 baht/h, but with haggling, they may be suitable for small groups. To circumvent the mafia-like touts who attempt to get a large cut for every ride, agree for the price of the shortest possible ride (30 min), then negotiate directly with the captain when on board.</div> <div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">By taxi</div><div>Taxis are a quick and comfortable way to get around town, at least if the traffic is flowing your way, but be warned that Bangkok taxi drivers are notorious for finding ways to run up the fare; insist that the meter is used, and if the driver claims that your destination is closed, that he doesn't know where it is, or if he tries to take you elsewhere just get out of the taxi. All taxis are now metered and air-conditioned: the hailing fee is 35 baht and most trips within Bangkok cost less than 100 baht. There are no surcharges (except from the airport), even at night; don't believe drivers who try to tell you otherwise. A red sign, if lit, on the front window means that the taxi is available.</div> <div>When the meter is switched on you will see a red '35' somewhere on the dashboard or between the driver and you. Be sure to check for this at the start of the ride, as many drivers will "forget" to start the meter in order to overcharge you at the end of your trip. Most will start the meter when asked politely to do so (meter na khrap/kha (male/female)); if the driver refuses to use the meter after a couple of attempts, simply exit the taxi.</div> <div>In some cases, late at night and especially near major tourist districts like Khao San or Patpong, you will need to walk a block away to catch a meter cab. The effort can save you as much as 150 baht. This is often also the case for taxis that park all day in front of your hotel. There are only two reasons that they are there: to take you places where they can get their commissions (Jewelry stores, massage parlors, etc,) and to overcharge you by not using the meter.</div> <div>Your best bet is to walk to the road and catch an unoccupied metered taxi in motion (easier than it sounds, as Bangkok traffic tends to crawl the majority of the time, and one car out of four is a taxi). Avoid parked taxis altogether, and if a taxi driver refuses to turn the meter on, simply close the door and find one who will. Keep in mind that it is illegal for them to have unmetered fares. Be smart and give your money to honest drivers, not touts. The only reason that they get away with this so frequently is that foreign tourists let them.</div> <div>Be sure to either know the correct pronunciation of your destination, or have it written in Thai, as taxi drivers in Bangkok are notoriously bad at reading maps, and most drivers speak limited English. Most hotels and guesthouses will happily write out addresses in Thai for you. While most drivers will recognize the names of tourist hot spots, even if grossly mispronounced, it is often difficult to properly pronounce addresses in Thai, a tonal language. If your mobile phone works in Thailand, it is sometimes useful to phone your hotel and ask the staff to speak to your driver in Thai. In addition, try to get your hotel's business card to show the taxi driver in case you get lost.</div> <div>If you are pinching pennies or fussy about your means of transportation, you may wish to avoid getting into one of the (very common) yellow-green taxis. They are owner-operated and of highly variable quality and occasionally have rigged meters. All other colors belong to large taxi companies, which usually enforce their standards better.</div> <div>On some routes, the driver will ask if he should use the Tollway--this will usually save a lot of time. You have to pay the cost at the toll booth (not in advance and not at the end of the journey). Watch how much the driver really pays, as many try to keep the change.</div> <div>When getting out, try to have small bills (100 baht or less) or expect problems with change. Tips are not necessary, but are certainly welcome; most local passengers will round up or leave any coin change as tip.</div> <div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">By tuk-tuk</div><div><br /></div><div>Tuk-tuks on the prowl</div><div>Finally, what would Bangkok be without the much-loathed, much-loved 'tuk-tuks? You'll know them when you hear them, and you'll hate them when you smell them — these three-wheeled contraptions blaze around Bangkok leaving a black cloud of smog in their wake. For anything more than a 5-10 minute jaunt or just the experience, they really are not worth the price — and, if you let them get away with it, the price will usually be 4 or 5 times what it should be anyway (which, for Thais, is around 30% less than the equivalent metered taxi fare). On the other hand, you can sometimes ride for free if you agree to visit touristy clothing or jewelry shops (which give the tuk-tuk driver petrol coupons and commissions for bringing customers). The shops' salesmen are pushy, but you are free to leave after five to ten minutes of browsing. Visitors should beware though, sometimes one stop can turn in to three, and your tuk-tuk driver may not be interested in taking you where you need to go once he has his petrol coupons. Also, with Bangkok's densely congested traffic it is sure to spend hours of your time.</div> <div>In case you actually want to get somewhere, and you're an all-male party, be careful with the tuk-tuk drivers, they will usually just ignore your destination and start driving you to some brothel ("beautiful girls"). Insist continually and forcefully on going only to your destination.</div> <div>There's also a less-heralded, less-colourful and less-touristy version of the tuk-tuk that usually serves the back sois in residential neighborhoods. They usually have four wheels instead of three and resemble a tiny truck / ute / lorry, and they run on petrol instead of LP. The maids and locals tend to use them to return home from market with loads of groceries, or for quick trips if they're available. Negotiate before you get in, but don't expect to go much beyond the edge of that particular neighborhood.</div> <div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">By bicycle</div><div><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;">Recreational Bangkok Biking</div><div>Go cycling! It may sound crazy, but it certainly is not. Away from the main roads there is a vast system of small streets and alleys. Cyclists are treated as pedestrians, so you can use your bicycle to explore parks, temple complexes, markets and the more quiet residential areas of eastern Bangkok. In more crowded places you can cycle on the sidewalk. Exploring the town by bicycle has all the advantages of going by foot, combined with a much greater action radius and a cooling breeze when cycling.</div> <div>If you want to experience Bangkok hideaways and countryside, leisurely cycling through green paddy fields, colorful orchid farms, peaceful lotus fields and touched by the charm of Thai way of country life at personal level, bicycle is a great way to do it.</div> </div></div>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-50045215092837861842010-05-23T12:34:00.000-07:002010-05-23T13:05:23.511-07:00Shimla "The best summer capital of India"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpXXdztNI1u7yFGyKxN4KY4hBPhg041ewl_3uoWCPZudrMJKdEDwvTWBjTi8dm07bCDVaIxuajLZsxnUmA4Ud91dqxiS1qlEAvEyWRYz6Vp4cxVd3Om_QUA9bVDjCSXQ5jurAUqPg6QhF/s1600/shimla.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpXXdztNI1u7yFGyKxN4KY4hBPhg041ewl_3uoWCPZudrMJKdEDwvTWBjTi8dm07bCDVaIxuajLZsxnUmA4Ud91dqxiS1qlEAvEyWRYz6Vp4cxVd3Om_QUA9bVDjCSXQ5jurAUqPg6QhF/s400/shimla.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474558795044523602" /></a><br /><br /><div><div>Shimla derives its name from Shayamla, which is another name for Goddess Kali. Shimla came into light when the Britishers discovered it in 1819. Till then it was a part of the Nepalese kingdom. Soon after the British came to this place many Europeans started making houses here. In 1864 Shimla was declared as the summer capital of India. After Independence Shimla was the capital of Punjab and was later named the capital of Himachal Pradesh. In 1903 a rail line was constructed between Kalka and Shimla.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI8e52Ty4GmtdLNdvE4ePt6KLmYFSF9fA0u0MeOrM05Q79vJQJ68IhhAftCA8gH_t5dxTM5_QQAe3izD-fve45io92dUn6tsmMlbOaNIW6yLs0SuydS_Q0-MN8w9DGy8HnKvoqgFN5-6QM/s1600/shimla.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI8e52Ty4GmtdLNdvE4ePt6KLmYFSF9fA0u0MeOrM05Q79vJQJ68IhhAftCA8gH_t5dxTM5_QQAe3izD-fve45io92dUn6tsmMlbOaNIW6yLs0SuydS_Q0-MN8w9DGy8HnKvoqgFN5-6QM/s400/shimla.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474558696208364802" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Shimla has been blessed with all the natural bounties which one can think of. It has got a scenic location, it is surrounded by green hills with snow capped peaks. The spectacular cool hills accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era creates an aura which is very different from other hill stations. Shimla has all the facilities required for tourists but they can be very expensive particularly during the peak season. Often it becomes difficult to find accommodation here during the peak season. And remember water is a perennial problem in Shimla.</div><div><br /></div><div>Shimla in itself is a very small town and is very well maintain and neatly kept city. In central part of the town is Mall which almost divides the city in two parts. In the center of the city is the famous scandal point which was immortalised by Rudyard Kipling. From Christ Church to the Scandal point is the Ridge area. The Ridge is a place where all tourist flock and spend time. From the ridge one can hire a pony to other places in Shimla. Just below the ridge is the Tibetan market where one can purchase foreign items which often are fake. Shimla has got a big but very unorganized bus stand on the cart Road. A lift has been provided from the Cart Road to the eastern Mall road. This lift carries people from lower to upper Shimla. The rest of Shimla is connected by unnamed and steep lanes and steps.</div></div><br /><div><b>Christ Church</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjTc-KhvOa2qi1J4kNPo4xhYE8XI0XLaq2TU7n-5zduXitfzlS-n-mtT2oQkF1pxsvwNnQGlb6X91hJQisNGT1OlLo5Vt2Q2J6y3e5vo9Tt9iznIaVHjLuN_xZq_JzVCCC1ycBRDsUu7Zo/s1600/Christ+Church+shimla.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjTc-KhvOa2qi1J4kNPo4xhYE8XI0XLaq2TU7n-5zduXitfzlS-n-mtT2oQkF1pxsvwNnQGlb6X91hJQisNGT1OlLo5Vt2Q2J6y3e5vo9Tt9iznIaVHjLuN_xZq_JzVCCC1ycBRDsUu7Zo/s400/Christ+Church+shimla.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474552119054386130" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 230px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>Christ Church is the second oldest church of North India and is considered as one of the landmarks of Shimla. It was built in 1846-1857 and stands overlooking a ridge. Its stained glass windows and clocks, though not working anymore, add to its beauty. Other important churches of the city are St. Michael's Cathedral and Roman Catholic Cathedral. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Jakhu Temple</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirlKDQdZHMkeShjqEpVuK8a_n46NSQbmDcl5ljKqN6f5i2HaSt2dNHtK5L028-dWKqIBmDLlSl69vK8ACBn5W-F1ZEfxfh4mwRGMVssNFaV5-U-wslDLvo6CEMFBjD6B71IG04_6dxJaH3/s1600/Jakhu+Temple+shimla.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirlKDQdZHMkeShjqEpVuK8a_n46NSQbmDcl5ljKqN6f5i2HaSt2dNHtK5L028-dWKqIBmDLlSl69vK8ACBn5W-F1ZEfxfh4mwRGMVssNFaV5-U-wslDLvo6CEMFBjD6B71IG04_6dxJaH3/s400/Jakhu+Temple+shimla.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474552327009126066" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px; " /></a></div><div>Situated at the highest point of the Shimla ridge, Jakhu temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It offers fantastic views of valleys, snowcapped peaks and the town itself. The temple is just the right place for seeing the magical sunrises and sunsets of Shimla. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sankat Mochan Temple</b></div><div>Another shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Sankat Mochan Temple is situated 5 km down the Shimla-Kalka road. The temple offers beautiful views of Shimla and also has a campus worth visiting. Every Sunday, a 'Langar' or open kitchen is organized here.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Tara Devi Temple</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAO9Y8x5nevsu3SwLv1R92huSAXaoYU-DZAih_5cdSpA3u6S3R69FhCj6BzazNVcHTMPJ8q8VUSeiHVMh-ahCFGmu3vrNYM_MkF-4M60OrcQtANyjJrj5DZICcVwO5FZgFXWVe9DOiRku5/s1600/Tara+Devi+Temple.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAO9Y8x5nevsu3SwLv1R92huSAXaoYU-DZAih_5cdSpA3u6S3R69FhCj6BzazNVcHTMPJ8q8VUSeiHVMh-ahCFGmu3vrNYM_MkF-4M60OrcQtANyjJrj5DZICcVwO5FZgFXWVe9DOiRku5/s400/Tara+Devi+Temple.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474553676992763554" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>Situated at a distance of approximately 20 km from Shimla, Tara Devi temple is connected to the city by train, bus and motorable road. You can also trek through a shorter route (5 km) through dense forests to reach the temple. It also offers panoramic views of the city and is also a very a popular picnic spot.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Kali Bari Mandir</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8sb_TjVcgBm98p6QOo3RllhhxqcnOw1RbHtxrdwUeObEGn12CxnLvd3pj_ecdVtdA2bbXzhaLvZ4ZfTLR6pLDz0MO4JUQ-g1WgLGsny76hBxTDwUedNUQM-HbXRLDCxO55j0-wJ6wcPUD/s1600/Kali+Bari+Mandir+shimla.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8sb_TjVcgBm98p6QOo3RllhhxqcnOw1RbHtxrdwUeObEGn12CxnLvd3pj_ecdVtdA2bbXzhaLvZ4ZfTLR6pLDz0MO4JUQ-g1WgLGsny76hBxTDwUedNUQM-HbXRLDCxO55j0-wJ6wcPUD/s400/Kali+Bari+Mandir+shimla.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474553803444479586" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>Close to the Mall Road of Shimla lies the Kali Bari Mandir, dedicated to Goddess Shyamala Devi. Pilgrims throng this temple, especially during Diwali Festival and Durga Puja.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Ridge</b></div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3zpR0mGIJXpz1iu_GcovsJF7BCl8NYSQdd7B5bwR_NNacTv8Fi-qVWV0zwCf_l6YeLr5XBkkZ0eaQeoFe-e_TfLsNM-_yuTWJmh4TZ6jkhOgGERy1gIEX6Zz6xjjlMw5O8Hwf3cPM6k59/s1600/The+Ridge+shimla.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3zpR0mGIJXpz1iu_GcovsJF7BCl8NYSQdd7B5bwR_NNacTv8Fi-qVWV0zwCf_l6YeLr5XBkkZ0eaQeoFe-e_TfLsNM-_yuTWJmh4TZ6jkhOgGERy1gIEX6Zz6xjjlMw5O8Hwf3cPM6k59/s400/The+Ridge+shimla.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474554072416946914" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></a></div><div>Centrally situated in Shimla, this large open space offers picturesque views of mountain ranges. It is situated quite close to some significant landmarks of Shimla, such as the Christ Church and the Tudor Library. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Mall </b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDv5AP-nAD5nXmNC8GHhxOIymMrxBTMPt3-1ZD_0zLGs6JfaB2uc2iErcSWY8GWnApAFa9nSk9LDGwBnF94WkoUdnm915jIkh-papbA4voWQAI2QriTe7VK29ccEToO5c7Z3V3cJ0IHCo/s1600/The+Mall.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaDv5AP-nAD5nXmNC8GHhxOIymMrxBTMPt3-1ZD_0zLGs6JfaB2uc2iErcSWY8GWnApAFa9nSk9LDGwBnF94WkoUdnm915jIkh-papbA4voWQAI2QriTe7VK29ccEToO5c7Z3V3cJ0IHCo/s400/The+Mall.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474554245312438050" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>The activity center of Shimla, the Mall is located near the Ridge and Scandal Point. There are a number of emporiums, showrooms and restaurant here, along with the Gaiety Theatre that is built on the lines of old British theatres and is used as a center of cultural activities. Shimla Mall has three cinema halls, a Roller Skating hall, Billiard Rooms and video game centers. It is also the chosen venue for Summer Festival in June, Ice-skating in December-January and Winter Carnival of February. One can also visit the exhibitions and craft fares going around in the area quite frequently.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Summer Hill</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXzfbGCA13Az0I1j_ZXwLG2PBN7OwycCBI26GYLAhkHFkmkKtBKCLhCqRF2hlAyFHE6YFB8ayvGCpa9rOi2fKt7_aF1y9vtHtlvzLT42n1ndh3YZVBmM7A7bq6t-x_aFvejKPYqb5n4k_M/s1600/Summer+Hill+shimla.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXzfbGCA13Az0I1j_ZXwLG2PBN7OwycCBI26GYLAhkHFkmkKtBKCLhCqRF2hlAyFHE6YFB8ayvGCpa9rOi2fKt7_aF1y9vtHtlvzLT42n1ndh3YZVBmM7A7bq6t-x_aFvejKPYqb5n4k_M/s400/Summer+Hill+shimla.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474554524217138754" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>1 km from Boilaeuganj, Summer Hill at an altitude of 1,283 m is a charming spot on Shimla-Kalka Railway line. It has peaceful surroundings, shady walks, Himachal Pradesh University and beautiful Georgian House of Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during his visit to Shimla. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Annandale</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Y3C5tXG8v0NVzPZ3oVjPuE3jRBL2vgfKQqZ8G01ZGEbhR-IHoFBm9YJ0gLUTLR5Dki-Vd06jdM3t2x3spakFmfH1s9c2MCO9eYCVKteHhtUymKwtWY25x0xsH_I3KQ-5t-pVrsUvTMD_/s1600/Annandale.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Y3C5tXG8v0NVzPZ3oVjPuE3jRBL2vgfKQqZ8G01ZGEbhR-IHoFBm9YJ0gLUTLR5Dki-Vd06jdM3t2x3spakFmfH1s9c2MCO9eYCVKteHhtUymKwtWY25x0xsH_I3KQ-5t-pVrsUvTMD_/s400/Annandale.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474554805509824034" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 265px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>Annadale is a glade surrounded by forests of tall deodar trees, just beyond Glen. It has an ancient temple on its edge and was once used as the playground of Shimla by the British who came here to enjoy racing, polo and cricket. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Elysium Hill</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTt5MQ3wF36FMqqQWTG2UEpJWnbqv4_a3WweCGUw2ivschiqv7h7sm2li9_7Pv5G5yQ6Wd__n_vVI1e4dR9HAyr128NO9QDRTkHaNt2ikFNPDYgqKCL_nNUMSM5YVEH9ihXt6aJ2QG_qN/s1600/Elysium+Hill+shimla.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTt5MQ3wF36FMqqQWTG2UEpJWnbqv4_a3WweCGUw2ivschiqv7h7sm2li9_7Pv5G5yQ6Wd__n_vVI1e4dR9HAyr128NO9QDRTkHaNt2ikFNPDYgqKCL_nNUMSM5YVEH9ihXt6aJ2QG_qN/s400/Elysium+Hill+shimla.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474555064577289122" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 160px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>Elysium Hill houses Lakkar Bazaar (Wood Market) and the famous Auckland House, which was used as the residence by Viceroy Lord Auckland once. Today, the Auckland House is used as popular girls' school. The hill also boasts of Stirling Castle, which is being used as an orphanage for Tibetan children and a shelter for locally settled Tibetan exiles. </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Shimla State Museum</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqoXfVMjj6SPnqt2a66ldYwSdGRxDjeAo-stPrrEE1b01E0WHrQ5v8lK12MT1l-Pzi7uR_d4OiJTzj0q1MbWrxgKoQGrBWiGDjcCUs3Se0MJY-cXaE-ZQS63ZSMzFMad7XKt1jal1mS1-q/s1600/Shimla+State+Museum+shimla.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqoXfVMjj6SPnqt2a66ldYwSdGRxDjeAo-stPrrEE1b01E0WHrQ5v8lK12MT1l-Pzi7uR_d4OiJTzj0q1MbWrxgKoQGrBWiGDjcCUs3Se0MJY-cXaE-ZQS63ZSMzFMad7XKt1jal1mS1-q/s400/Shimla+State+Museum+shimla.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474555419035646306" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>Shimla State Museum is set on top of a hill, above the Chaura Maidan at Shimla. It is housed in a colonial building, known as Inverarm. One has to hike about 1500 m to reach the colonial mansion housing the museum. </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Padam Palace</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxsFM2RbsV1ON14UeMOEJGuw0zkiguonYe6G3LIp68ltIcoupTX4N1_NqTd-Z7pNMcXP03fErLZsKZM3SM_vmd3HRPL0swvi4eJyzBptNoJDc142gZF2lqgpLQQCVW36p6uu_GxAqTRdg/s400/Padam+Palace+shimla.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474555622815721026" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 263px; " /></span></b></div><div>Situated at a distance of approximately 125 km from Shimla is Padam Palace, one of the major attractions of Rampur. It once served as the Winter Capital of the former princely state of Bushair. </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Viceregal Lodge </b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgua7CKUse9V7koAuK6I5F0XjhEEX1zXJNdY9uDoB8ud49dGaoyiZOqhoh9Onzp1YYnyFBGQmeYqpOvmxmno6OFgVuA41M28z-P4_QBFkjcEu2qx7nwBFFV3_Vp3zVq33EDUK7ciznWi9xW/s1600/Viceregal+Lodge+shimla.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgua7CKUse9V7koAuK6I5F0XjhEEX1zXJNdY9uDoB8ud49dGaoyiZOqhoh9Onzp1YYnyFBGQmeYqpOvmxmno6OFgVuA41M28z-P4_QBFkjcEu2qx7nwBFFV3_Vp3zVq33EDUK7ciznWi9xW/s400/Viceregal+Lodge+shimla.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474555999424186930" style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></span></b></span></b></div><div>One of the most famous landmarks of Shimla, the Viceregal Lodge situated on the Observatory Hill and also known as the Rashtrapati Niwas now. The building lies at a distance of just 2 km from the Himachal State Museum. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Kamru Fort</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguQtRiI5DKf2Ob0IrvOOwYgyBMOOh4eU1Tuwplruawd4oS9RYrxycO6ns8jvcpMkmGfnwfdJhDGfNcLx0P4C3cuDdn_V6cA4Z7i1eyT6BH6mWXElfwyeVzjqxFPuzDQWHbacbp3VGyi4wj/s400/Kamru+Fort+shimla.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474556196670166578" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></b></div><div>Standing at an altitude of 2600 m above sea level, Kamru fort is 229 km from Shimla and 2 km from the beautiful Sangla Valley. The fort is set in a picturesque location and is entered through a series of gates. </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Arki Fort</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlNiTCNKegoAtnpgZ67_Sjd0UIkwcA-nkmWKADrkk7LogKG7iuYmk3ohMPWTDTBi8PFgueVuJIjNu0Oc12O_ksgruJBBlIV8yPj7Syv5m5-Uf9IwFDC-Rhj5ITlGiYjy3h42AWyA2bT2g/s1600/arki+fort.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlNiTCNKegoAtnpgZ67_Sjd0UIkwcA-nkmWKADrkk7LogKG7iuYmk3ohMPWTDTBi8PFgueVuJIjNu0Oc12O_ksgruJBBlIV8yPj7Syv5m5-Uf9IwFDC-Rhj5ITlGiYjy3h42AWyA2bT2g/s400/arki+fort.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474556783219712226" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 250px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>Situated at a distance of approximately 40 km from Shimla, Arki is a small town in the Solan district that was once the capital of the princely state of Baghal. Gurkhas trying to invade the city used Arki Fort as their stronghold during the Gurkha Wars that went on till 1815-16. </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Bhakra Nangal Dam</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhERqPhyphenhyphenr911yMcQdynwqKG_5XxZR11i-wNlspx7BQ8GHKVW65LiGlqYLLZdkOxhwDxRh8ZnBMabtT9lpMvXw5SErnwcRGTfUxxZo8Zcvz0nkZcSRVkyBs4RCxhgFFKnV7tb5PcLUodIPPK/s1600/Reservior+at+Nangal+dam.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhERqPhyphenhyphenr911yMcQdynwqKG_5XxZR11i-wNlspx7BQ8GHKVW65LiGlqYLLZdkOxhwDxRh8ZnBMabtT9lpMvXw5SErnwcRGTfUxxZo8Zcvz0nkZcSRVkyBs4RCxhgFFKnV7tb5PcLUodIPPK/s400/Reservior+at+Nangal+dam.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474557384182763650" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>Bhakra Nangal Dam has emerged as a very popular tourist place in Himachal Pradesh. It was aptly titled as the 'New Temple of Resurgent India' by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India.</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Shopping</b></div><div>As such Shimla has nothing special to offer to the tourists. But being the state capital handicrafts from all over the state come here for sale. The Mall has some of the good and big names in the garment and textile industry. But the garment or the woollen material which are sold here are not manufactured in Shimla, they are all brought from Ludhiana and adjoining places. The State emporium on the Mall offers many handicraft and handloom items which are made by the artisans of Himachal. The famous Himachali hat comes in different rates and vivid colors. The quality also differs. To avoid any fakes it is better to purchase these items from Government approved emporiums. Lakkar Bazaar is famous for items made from wood. These decorative wooden items are made from the soft wood found in the region. Further, dry fruits and natural herbs which have many medicinal properties are easily available in the shops. But the fact can not be denied that Shimla is a place to rest and not to go on shopping sprees.</div><div><div><br /></div><div><b>Climate </b></div><div>Shimla is located on the slopes of lower Himalayas. The altitude of Shimla from the sea level makes it a very cool place. The temperature range is not very high and the maximum temperature rarely crosses 25 degrees during summers. The summers are marked by rainfalls. The nights of summers are cool and light warm cloths are required during this time. Winter are cold and chilly winds from the upper Himalayas makes the place really cold. Around Christmas or last week of December Shimla gets snow. The snowfall during this time attracts many tourists and accommodation can prove to be difficult. The Best season to visit Shimla is between April and August. But the main season is between December and January. It is better to avoid the rainy seasons.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Getting There </b></div><div>The Jubbarhatti airport is 23 kms from Shimla. Major domestic airlines cater their services to Shimla. The flights are mainly form Delhi. Shimla has a narrow gauze railway line on which toy train runs from Kalka to Shimla. The train cruises its way through valleys and beautiful landscapes at a very slow pace making the journey very pleasant. From Kalka one can take trains to other parts of the country. The Toy train from Shimla is of two types. One is the normal multi coach train and the other is the single car train which has a glass roof giving an enthralling experience during the journey. Roads connect this capital city of Himachal with other places in the state as well as other major towns and cities. There is regular bus service from Delhi and Chandigarh. Ordinary, semi deluxe, deluxe and AC coaches are available for Shimla. One can also cross over to Leh and Ladakh via Rohtang pass from here. Local transportation is very good, with taxies and buses available for the nearby places.</div></div>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-66063421082223991192010-04-26T21:16:00.000-07:002010-04-26T22:09:50.416-07:00Island of Ischia "The volcanic island with beautiful sunset and beaches"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fFJhqF0SGcUUNUo0KjWDmGSNkYSuY5r4ZlZIUuEHLIq9MU2izBNqUNBnOzcz9FLYZVkQ0jp9DKo66VHKPX6CRQt0ZpC3DkXEAJUjAZzviuIll6bN3FviWM9p_G-KI3qQQd-AeCsk7PIa/s1600/Ischia.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fFJhqF0SGcUUNUo0KjWDmGSNkYSuY5r4ZlZIUuEHLIq9MU2izBNqUNBnOzcz9FLYZVkQ0jp9DKo66VHKPX6CRQt0ZpC3DkXEAJUjAZzviuIll6bN3FviWM9p_G-KI3qQQd-AeCsk7PIa/s400/Ischia.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464678452693187506" /></a><br /><div>Though well-known to European and Asian travelers, the island of Ischia, Italy, is oft-overlooked by Americans whose sights are more often set on nearby Capri. Though you’ll hardly have Ischia to yourself, you will find fewer crowds and a less-pretentious attitude on this volcanic island in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Though predominantly green and mountainous, beach bums will have no trouble scoping out a stretch of sand. And, when the sun sets, you’ll have your choice of accommodations for every budget to rest your head, plenty of al fresco perches that are primed for aperitivo, and some of the world's best food – this is Italy after all.</div><br /><div><b>Sant'Angelo</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCcUBXZyRO2eS9nnJQxWFMgMNNyYLfotRWLKyNEhGOHxkq2FieJZ4S8yQb8nz_VkVk3UZPrzZmOam8SOrG16cEScWjv_MEO_D56vLz6loGhrl5UxqjQpcwB0r9xAoMYuHr8Qt20Z9BkvTR/s1600/Sant'Angelo+ischia.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCcUBXZyRO2eS9nnJQxWFMgMNNyYLfotRWLKyNEhGOHxkq2FieJZ4S8yQb8nz_VkVk3UZPrzZmOam8SOrG16cEScWjv_MEO_D56vLz6loGhrl5UxqjQpcwB0r9xAoMYuHr8Qt20Z9BkvTR/s400/Sant'Angelo+ischia.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464671911453388082" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>This sea-side hamlet of Serrara Fontana is free of motor vehicles and seems untouched by time. Tourists wander the colourful streets, trying out a wide variety of seafood dishes and browsing through local artisan shops. The peaceful village also boasts a myriad of different types of delicate fauna.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Ischia</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_jbumaQ0greEPppQGmOeFDeXQKE964hMIHjGPmiltPbZ2toHt0VYfquNqeSgKYlvdChiFoOrqEQT_WMHoPL1ioPN_0vdZ0SlbvQgXMVZlNi0RSkWpUf0RDcRuIW1L8Lb1EMqcZ_BBRWe/s1600/Ischia.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA_jbumaQ0greEPppQGmOeFDeXQKE964hMIHjGPmiltPbZ2toHt0VYfquNqeSgKYlvdChiFoOrqEQT_WMHoPL1ioPN_0vdZ0SlbvQgXMVZlNi0RSkWpUf0RDcRuIW1L8Lb1EMqcZ_BBRWe/s400/Ischia.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464672582563728034" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px; " /></a></div><div>Ischia, the chief place on the island of Ischia, is picturesquely situated on the northeast coast; it consists of Ischia Ponte the two districts of Ischia Ponte and Ischia Porto. In Ischia Ponte a mighty Castello stands on a 91m/300ft-high rocky crag accessible by a stone causeway.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Piazzale Battistessa</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkEEtcRl_jn28YbnCprPkLKYa749DD_Q3lEuJVM0qMIeF1DhyObe5yoWJcxcaPAJOTbLRWkZrJFsEJZAFoi6rqX7pHfajid-9Ml4Hpwg2KnwH6A1MXGzA1AfVQKmkf7lV5A2-PX0T7IpXw/s1600/ischia+square.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkEEtcRl_jn28YbnCprPkLKYa749DD_Q3lEuJVM0qMIeF1DhyObe5yoWJcxcaPAJOTbLRWkZrJFsEJZAFoi6rqX7pHfajid-9Ml4Hpwg2KnwH6A1MXGzA1AfVQKmkf7lV5A2-PX0T7IpXw/s400/ischia+square.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464673078532955970" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 387px; " /></a></div><div>The Piazzale Battistessa is located in the historic heart of Ischia, and is a popular place to relax, enjoy a cup of cappuccino and people-watch. The square is also the site of many events throughout the year.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Corricella </b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6m2LPQRnb7_90oTbDjab0UQcTwzAZkllFn48vtrjXd8zBeJfNq-Qbon97_F-i14822I0f7WpmFhI3SQry-_kzVFqtRDfqwoXPJ2Viz-zhLcC_6_mIe9zzzLj6dFqkQYhnELeVQ4W9rpdJ/s1600/Corricella.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6m2LPQRnb7_90oTbDjab0UQcTwzAZkllFn48vtrjXd8zBeJfNq-Qbon97_F-i14822I0f7WpmFhI3SQry-_kzVFqtRDfqwoXPJ2Viz-zhLcC_6_mIe9zzzLj6dFqkQYhnELeVQ4W9rpdJ/s400/Corricella.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464673779328717522" style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div>On a precipitous crag above Corricella lies the medieval fortified upper town known as Terra Murat. From here and from the Punta dei Monaci there are extensive views of the island.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Town of Procida</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcopHDvETqMNDZC17TI5h1x1ODwjIl-LvBGmv2x77aRCDljT466dT8K7UWLGpV4o1oOeCdb8GH_umocuiOTvb4q7f_ehaAXSmVC4TPQt2gSkQ-Hh6S-pu-WC1Mzqa77B-jE1IA3nyy-f-p/s1600/Town+of+Procida.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcopHDvETqMNDZC17TI5h1x1ODwjIl-LvBGmv2x77aRCDljT466dT8K7UWLGpV4o1oOeCdb8GH_umocuiOTvb4q7f_ehaAXSmVC4TPQt2gSkQ-Hh6S-pu-WC1Mzqa77B-jE1IA3nyy-f-p/s400/Town+of+Procida.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464674062251760322" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>On the northeast side of the Isola di Prócida lies the little town of Prócida, with a modern harbor (Sancio Cattolico) and the old fishing harbor of Corricella, a charming district of pastel-washed houses with domes, terraces and the characteristic external staircases</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Vivara</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji19krm3T1kMZgDzWHy1F5brGX7j8W3E9BmefEfTNZCRKqTpvNhSyWtLa-4JO5ykyaZdsibe4p9nyyN2aM9BpAX26ypy4DP6h32AosD9sGYdKp1ztwrIbF_knXuhwmE-sSqobrClxuu71S/s1600/Vivara.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji19krm3T1kMZgDzWHy1F5brGX7j8W3E9BmefEfTNZCRKqTpvNhSyWtLa-4JO5ykyaZdsibe4p9nyyN2aM9BpAX26ypy4DP6h32AosD9sGYdKp1ztwrIbF_knXuhwmE-sSqobrClxuu71S/s400/Vivara.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464674525109213794" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 264px; " /></a></div><div>Offshore Prócida to the west lies the little islet of Vivara (109m/360ft), which is connected to Prócida by a bridge. Olive trees grow well here and there are wild rabbits.</div><div>There is a nature park and archaeological digs have uncovered fragments of Mycenaean pottery, left behind by the Greeks.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Castello d'Ischia </b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><b> </b></span></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddrBYCLMK6wpLy7EDDaweSdyQK0x_txXQDASHbYoIF54s5R2veovP58Rzhc-YXQMeF1WxHPtRh4GW5IWB5CwdCG4ghN_NHs8z9CCJIP6nqUXgMGZNSEOOEdgzzHi_fyO6JMMSG971xYu2/s1600/Castello+d%27Ischia.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddrBYCLMK6wpLy7EDDaweSdyQK0x_txXQDASHbYoIF54s5R2veovP58Rzhc-YXQMeF1WxHPtRh4GW5IWB5CwdCG4ghN_NHs8z9CCJIP6nqUXgMGZNSEOOEdgzzHi_fyO6JMMSG971xYu2/s400/Castello+d%27Ischia.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464674895177578594" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>This castle complex was added on to the original, 5th-century BC Roman fortress in 1441 by Alphonso Aragon, who joined the tiny island off Ischia to the mainland by a narrow bridge. The entire population of the island hid in the castle when under attack from pirates and other insurgentsa many times, and also took refuge here when the island's volcano, Mt. Epomeo, erupted in 1301. At one point, nearly 2,000 people lived within its walls.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Monte Epomeo</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEwEy6XRCdM8uw9jlKXkJOzqvDqEjz-Ra0g-ZQfji6GP0fIzoEddb7Rze4Gfv1qrOUI90-EFU8xbnuC3f6ZfrDIxwYbCYHoE2aV3SOUuBld4MtzcvsgPHp_EcvOTL45Efrj4LqFxYrr9oS/s1600/Monte+Epomeo.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEwEy6XRCdM8uw9jlKXkJOzqvDqEjz-Ra0g-ZQfji6GP0fIzoEddb7Rze4Gfv1qrOUI90-EFU8xbnuC3f6ZfrDIxwYbCYHoE2aV3SOUuBld4MtzcvsgPHp_EcvOTL45Efrj4LqFxYrr9oS/s400/Monte+Epomeo.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464675255057859858" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>The trek to the top is somewhat tricky, and may take the amateur hiker just a little longer, but the view from the top of Mont Epomeo is worth all the effort. The inactive volcano is reachable from the village of Fontana in Serrara. In the evening, the lights of the island are simply enchanting.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Gardens of Poseidon</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDbF17vIYEM1t_ryErXLWGlZUYL0EIZmPwLkkcovExyRpnT2FjkZDyZIsJFXN04p_6csiSde-5libvwwGMJ3oK_55mDV5p36Dub_HUX2DE2_lGoWIJsA4a4RYpdZ9GycyHJ9jhTEpf-0Hc/s1600/Gardens+of+Poseidon+ischia.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDbF17vIYEM1t_ryErXLWGlZUYL0EIZmPwLkkcovExyRpnT2FjkZDyZIsJFXN04p_6csiSde-5libvwwGMJ3oK_55mDV5p36Dub_HUX2DE2_lGoWIJsA4a4RYpdZ9GycyHJ9jhTEpf-0Hc/s400/Gardens+of+Poseidon+ischia.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464675484814312578" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>From Forio a beautiful road (20km/12mi) leads through the southern part of the island of Ischia. It passes above the Gardens of Poseidon (magnificent bathing facilities, with thermal springs) and continues via Panza (155m/512ft).</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></div><div><b>Museo La Mortella</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></div><div>La Mortella is a centre for the performance arts, most specifically, music. Its surrounding gardens are open to the public, and display many rare Mediterranean plants. The garden is meant to be a gift to inspire young artists, and was developed by William Walton, an English composer, in 1956.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Museo Archeologico di Pithecusae</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtFkDJPwLzoJfYjVnmRDuJU64C30ZFSP09czVUX32d7Lq5_oOFD5xTbbn-fIGDgi95YOhrem9V_h6xkfs0dxUC08A2LDEupwIzUiPJyrIAxIONaWh4u6LRtHERIT1jKhrOEZhQXxU7-48F/s1600/Museo+Archeologico+di+Pithecusae.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtFkDJPwLzoJfYjVnmRDuJU64C30ZFSP09czVUX32d7Lq5_oOFD5xTbbn-fIGDgi95YOhrem9V_h6xkfs0dxUC08A2LDEupwIzUiPJyrIAxIONaWh4u6LRtHERIT1jKhrOEZhQXxU7-48F/s400/Museo+Archeologico+di+Pithecusae.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464675817349799634" style="cursor: pointer; width: 346px; height: 400px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>The Museo Archeologico di Pithecusae contains artifacts from every period of Ischia's history, including a Pithecusaen vase dating back 2,700 years. Lo0cated in an 18th-century palace, the museum also houses a collection of items from the Bronze and Iron Ages.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bagno Ricciulillo</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><b> </b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; white-space: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjig7hIgKbza68SxEnx5auZHWnAzu0z0P8JVe6-JScAAzqaGNNMkvL5dCPFAo4swqtI8uFav6uW7cMsf7VUPTdQ_7rEGmw5R-tNfcldzVzFTzkHf0oGD6hR0AE1Y3OrkpjCBaESAC5qAt11/s1600/Bagno+Ricciulillo.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjig7hIgKbza68SxEnx5auZHWnAzu0z0P8JVe6-JScAAzqaGNNMkvL5dCPFAo4swqtI8uFav6uW7cMsf7VUPTdQ_7rEGmw5R-tNfcldzVzFTzkHf0oGD6hR0AE1Y3OrkpjCBaESAC5qAt11/s400/Bagno+Ricciulillo.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464676196376476418" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 283px; " /></a></span></b></span></div><div>The beach specializes in relaxation, and guests benefit from an on-site restaurant and bar. Bagno Ricciulillo is located well away from the noise of the city, and offers vacationers a tranquil oasis.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Barano Belmare</b></div><div>A small fee must be paid to stretch out in the sun at Belmare, but bathers are provided with chaise lounges and umbrellas. The beach is staffed with friendly service-people, and management often provdes special entertainment.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bagno Viola (da Stefano)</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn-pZhQaAmLc3rx9OUsavwbkZ4WSAYH5YXlgQabCO4NSd-77tVNhoJTl5IFlNg-SAJ475GOWeDJHyPM3THGODgYIi77XlXTVAc3YzvU7iYiE7MLFpdbOoXgdIoCvbe5ORlkSdxh-vxSk31/s1600/Bagno+Viola+(da+Stefano).jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn-pZhQaAmLc3rx9OUsavwbkZ4WSAYH5YXlgQabCO4NSd-77tVNhoJTl5IFlNg-SAJ475GOWeDJHyPM3THGODgYIi77XlXTVAc3YzvU7iYiE7MLFpdbOoXgdIoCvbe5ORlkSdxh-vxSk31/s400/Bagno+Viola+(da+Stefano).jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464676563559325058" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>The Bagno Viola offers a wide range of ammenities to its population of sun-worshippers, including a snack bar, umbrellas and showers. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Citara Beach</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwfA-uT4BsyneusmDd-xX1gbLvJ4VDqZ9raZnxpJ5JY7C4mzehYEpwRVh_vnd6y09_3VwuEq-fz0fY8n3__vjddMGsfJ9big-nLbOdW88amqVqL6-aD0YtSG5wqU5meJQQcBeq9z9BlCU/s1600/Citara+Beach.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwfA-uT4BsyneusmDd-xX1gbLvJ4VDqZ9raZnxpJ5JY7C4mzehYEpwRVh_vnd6y09_3VwuEq-fz0fY8n3__vjddMGsfJ9big-nLbOdW88amqVqL6-aD0YtSG5wqU5meJQQcBeq9z9BlCU/s400/Citara+Beach.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464677028577802210" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 246px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>This popular beach is located in Forio, and is a favourite because of its waters, which mix with thermal springs to create a warm and relaxing environment with many health benefits.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Stabilimento da Franco</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><b> </b></span></div><div>This beach has been open to the public for more than 40 years, and is a favourite among visitors and locals alike. Guests are treated to a lovely view of the harbour and warm, turquoise waters.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Transportations</b></div><div><b>Trenitalia - Intercity Trains</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></div><div>Trenitalia's Intercity Trains reach the most number of destinations throughout Italy. The service offers 120 trains a day, reaching over 212 stations throughout the country.</div><div>Address: Locations Throughout Italy </div><div>Tel: +39 (0) 89 2021<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Ischia Taxi</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><b> </b></span></div><div>The drivers of Ischia Taxi will pick guests to the island up at the ferry terminal, or even at the Naples' airport. The friendly operators all have a great appreciation and knowledge of Ischia, and are more than happy to share their personal tips.</div><div>Tel: +39 (0) 81 992651</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Con Bus Ischia</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></div><div>Con Bus Ischia has a large fleet of buses to shuttle travellers on and off the island, including 10 tourist buses with 57 seats each. There are also minibuses and cars available for smaller groups. The company provides several other servicers as well.</div><div>Address: Via Michele Mazzella 202 | Ischia, NA | 80070 </div><div>Tel: +39 (0) 81 802877</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Fantasy Tours</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"><b> </b></span></div><div>Fantasy Tours has a fleet of mini-vans for taking several tourists at once on excursions around the island. The tours can be custom-designed and are lead by multi-lingual drivers.</div><div>Address: Via Baiola, 113 | Forio, NA | 80075</div>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-4246617217971899082010-04-17T08:39:00.001-07:002010-04-17T09:39:50.410-07:00Hanoi "Top Destinations 2010"<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8DayLs2eAKfsEwUF_WD6hmqkLnyvhb-16VqdZCTwgQKd-aNWqMBZ-g8dmmlvqfL7qss7i0cPAElu0lt1ekswHUaKm8Dp3oI9XCO5gSW12zGTRveKHLwVvzyib9hSYPerrHaRMG0H3mR9l/s1600/Sword+Restored+Lake.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8DayLs2eAKfsEwUF_WD6hmqkLnyvhb-16VqdZCTwgQKd-aNWqMBZ-g8dmmlvqfL7qss7i0cPAElu0lt1ekswHUaKm8Dp3oI9XCO5gSW12zGTRveKHLwVvzyib9hSYPerrHaRMG0H3mR9l/s400/Sword+Restored+Lake.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461138029657142802" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px; " /></a><br />Vietnam's bustling capital may be a 1,000 years old, but it's a thriving metropolis with a French colonial soul. A cultural center littered with pagodas, temples, and historic monuments, Hanoi offers plenty for the traveler seeking an authentic yet eclectic Asian experience. The eating scene is colorful with excellent meals available at both street-side stalls and fine eateries. Nightlife won't disappoint with the labyrinthine Old Quarter and the area around Hoan Kiem Lake housing dozens of bars from Western ex-pat establishments to disco-infused nightclubs -- plus the legendary Minh's Jazz Club. There's also a cool and contemporary art gallery scene showcasing young artists along Pho Trang Tien. And if you love to shop, try the funky boutiques on Nha Tho, or Cho Hang Da, the huge Dong Xuan market that transforms into a night bazaar on weekends.<br /><br /><br /><div><b>One Pillar Pagoda</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_F6jWzHHiUgkb7BM7qZh1NznnVFMhAt0QhwtPuJVJAtsquUzuVEBVUkKhKcS-WnWzy3mZQZxOl_I0Y744aZjQ4Dfapa256VpY7TSDA6DnJXt5YIetOHRnDljEzUBR05ufYI2cYPZ52y57/s1600/One+Pillar+Pagoda.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_F6jWzHHiUgkb7BM7qZh1NznnVFMhAt0QhwtPuJVJAtsquUzuVEBVUkKhKcS-WnWzy3mZQZxOl_I0Y744aZjQ4Dfapa256VpY7TSDA6DnJXt5YIetOHRnDljEzUBR05ufYI2cYPZ52y57/s400/One+Pillar+Pagoda.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461135335135826722" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>The original name of the pagoda was Dien Huu pagoda which literally means long lasting happiness and and good luck. The pagoda is situated in the western part of the city. It was first built in 1049 in the reign of King Ly Thai Tong. legend has it that at time King Ly Thai Tong was very old and had no sons of his own. One night he had a dream that he was granted a private audience with Buddha with a male baby on his hands. Buddha seating on a lotus flower in a square-shaped lotus pond in the western side of Thang Long Citadel, gave the king the baby. Month later the queen got pregnant and she gave birth to a male. To repay the gift from Buddha, the king ordered the construction of a pagoda with was supported by only one pillar resembling a lotus seat on which Buddha had been seated. The pagoda was dedicated to Buddha.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Temple of Literature- Quoc Tu Giam</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxQr75epxmyLtnthUhfERSXSSB9LRL_WdH0s0dbXI5JpYa9q2OGUfn1qp8PU5hnuFhzblgW0SyOXrqTZBclLLzCikbdfGvg5OY8iUGs9sMCgzWsj4TnS0Ow8Tfgy6VAuWTWQF821kgHA8/s1600/Temple+of+Literature-+Quoc+Tu+Giam.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxQr75epxmyLtnthUhfERSXSSB9LRL_WdH0s0dbXI5JpYa9q2OGUfn1qp8PU5hnuFhzblgW0SyOXrqTZBclLLzCikbdfGvg5OY8iUGs9sMCgzWsj4TnS0Ow8Tfgy6VAuWTWQF821kgHA8/s400/Temple+of+Literature-+Quoc+Tu+Giam.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461136838557300402" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 261px; " /></a></div><div>Temple of Literature-Quoc Tu Giam was the first university of Vietnam where many students graduated with high flying colors. Some became doctors of philosophy. In 1482 King Le Thanh Tong ordered the erection of steles with inscription of all the names, birth dates and birth places of doctors, and other excellent graduates who took part in examinations since 1442. At present there remain 82 steles standing in the premises of Van Mieu. Aprt from its cultural value, each stele presents an artistic project of stone carving. Each stele is placed on the back of a turtle representing the nation's longevity.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sword Restored Lake/Hoan Kiem Lake<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyu9pLQ3SZj0ifiDKqnAHJRZz-Ukc3yQuy0osTfsQ4jdG-PBUWGqC6-xHgVE6FmJWWISIHbu1IQLLcp7gy0CRiSML05ndhOcz9YNh9iCe7AYos6qNI7EiQw92FOu1xKDjs4KtCXyVGwZjG/s1600/Hoan+Kiem+Lake.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyu9pLQ3SZj0ifiDKqnAHJRZz-Ukc3yQuy0osTfsQ4jdG-PBUWGqC6-xHgVE6FmJWWISIHbu1IQLLcp7gy0CRiSML05ndhOcz9YNh9iCe7AYos6qNI7EiQw92FOu1xKDjs4KtCXyVGwZjG/s400/Hoan+Kiem+Lake.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461146440729297138" style="cursor: pointer; width: 398px; height: 400px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>The lake which is not as large as Ho Tay to the northwest is situated in the center of the city. Because of its unique location Sword Restored Lake is billed as a basket of lower placed in the middle of Hanoi. The name of Sword Restored Lake is derived from a legend which has it that King Le Thai To had a precious sword. The sword. The sword had always been on his side during the 10-year resistance against the Ming aggressors. After he won over the foreign aggression and returned to Thang Long Citadel. One day he went out and boarded a royal boat to cruise in the lake. Suddenly he saw a giant turtle emerging and coming towards him. The king withdrew his sword and pinpointed with the sword the direction of the coming turtle for his soldiers' attention. All of a sudden, the turtle caught the sword between its teeth from the king's hand and submerged. The king thought that it might have been that during the resistance war against the Minh aggression, the king was offered sword by genie to help him defeat the enemy. Now when peace has returned the genie appeared and took back the sword. With that thought in mind, King Le Thai To named the lake after episode as Ho Hoan Kiem (Lake of Restored Sword).</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Ngoc Son Temple</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfm74gyPAYc6G_Jd4KjWNboNFntQ7V0ZIqMmuucW73wShkj9JnL5fxrw8NnWWSaNSH1Q5NcQagxUxzdJ50JfY3wHYLysV_QN7Qk5PLNDSoFOW0yMky79qjTCcwIbniYhtcnrGgwgViGNax/s1600/Ngoc+Son+Temple.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfm74gyPAYc6G_Jd4KjWNboNFntQ7V0ZIqMmuucW73wShkj9JnL5fxrw8NnWWSaNSH1Q5NcQagxUxzdJ50JfY3wHYLysV_QN7Qk5PLNDSoFOW0yMky79qjTCcwIbniYhtcnrGgwgViGNax/s400/Ngoc+Son+Temple.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461138668732084946" style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div>Hoan Kiem lake which had been considered the most beautiful lake in the city was in the 19th century added with another object to make it more beautiful and famous. That was the construction of a temple on the Ngoc (Jade) islet in the lake. Initially the temple was called Ngoc Son Pagoda. Later it was renamed Ngoc Son Temple because in the temple is dedicated to saints. Saint Van Suong was a person considered the brightest star in Vietnam's literature and intellectual circles. Tran Hung Dao was worshipped because he was the national hero who led the Vietnamese people to a resounding victory over the Nguyen aggression. The temple as it is seen today was attributable to the restoration afforts of Nguyen Van Sieu in 1864. A great Hanoi literature writer, Nguyen Van Sieu himself had a large pen-shaped tower (Thap But) built in at the entrance to the temple. On the upper section of the Thap but there are three Chinese characters Ta Thanh Thien which means literally that to write on the blue sky is to imply the height of a genuine and righteous person's determination and will. Behind Thap But is Dai Nghien (Ink Stand). The ink stand is carved from stone resembling a peach, which is placed on the back of the three frogs on top of the gate to the temple. Passing through Dai Nghien visitors are to tread on the wooden bridge called The Huc. The Huc is literally understood as the place where beams of morning sunshine are touching. </div><div> On the long way that leads to the temple there are several cau doi (parallel sentences) written on the wall. These cau doi are considered part of a traditional ward puzzle entertainment, a lifestyle literally educated persons of ancient Thang Long used to follow.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Quan Thanh Temple</b></div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI9smianPEB27e7dgZwWBlVdlYmpvSv1Ian-3lfCmrk-UxlACdZDkAe4Rc6hf7TwjABlp94jDf_aymNjAB8U7ybD0gi5dmdQs8thhGWhs8Y8SX8XWK3PMHpEXzmaPLZeVDoKh4N47mZXyo/s1600/Quan+Thanh+Temple.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI9smianPEB27e7dgZwWBlVdlYmpvSv1Ian-3lfCmrk-UxlACdZDkAe4Rc6hf7TwjABlp94jDf_aymNjAB8U7ybD0gi5dmdQs8thhGWhs8Y8SX8XWK3PMHpEXzmaPLZeVDoKh4N47mZXyo/s400/Quan+Thanh+Temple.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461138801243085026" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>The three ancient Chinese which are still seen today on the top of the entrance to the temple means Tran Vu Quan. That is literally the temple which is dedicated to Saint Tran Vu. A temple is a place for worshipping saints while a pagoda is dedicated to Buddha and faithful disciplines. </div><div> Saint Tran Vu was a legendary figure which was a combination between a legendary character in Vietnam's legend and a mystic character derived from China's legend. The legendary character in Vietnam's legend was a saint who had earned the merits of assisting King An Duong Vuong in getting rid of ghost spirit during the King's construction of his citadel at Co Loa. </div><div> The Chinese legendary figure was a saint who made great contributions in safeguarding the northern border. Quan Thanh Temple was built during the reign of King Ly Thai To (1010-1028). In 1893 the temple was given a grand facelift to have the shape as we can see it today. Special attention should be paid to a black bronze statute of Saint Tran Vu. The giant statute, formally placed in the main hall, was cast in 1677. Another special object is an ancient bronze bell, 1.5 meters high, which is hanged at the top of the three-gate entrance. </div><div> Another object of no less significant is a smaller black bronze statute of Old Trong, a chief artisan of the bronze casting team who had made the giant statute of Saint Tran Vu and the great bell on top of the tree-gate entrance. To commemorate the great contributions of the teacher Old Trong, his students of bronze casting cast his statute and placed in the temple for their for their younger generations to remember Old Trong for ever.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Hai Ba Trung Temple</b></div><div><br /></div><div>The temple is also called Dong Nhan Temple because it is located in the area of Dong Nhan village in Hai Ba Trung precinct. The temple was built in 1142 inder the reign of King Ly Anh Tong. It is dedicated to the two Vietnamese heroines Trung Trac and Trung Nhi. At the inner sanctum of the temple there are two statutes made of fine clay dedicating the two ladies Trung. Flanking on either side of the two statutes of Ladies Trung are statutes of 12 women generals who followed the two Ladies leading their army to defeat the foreign aggressors. In the 5th and 6th day of the second lunar month there is a grand festival organized at the site of the temple to commemorate the two national heroines.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West Lake and Youth Road</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpkMpUGOSzhIDLFyCUDgKRMP0ZgeruvaBdWad0TnZQF0d4nNdI44BQdsplbUZfP1yQQeGr6Mwa8H3GCUT2vSUwb4f0TmuuX3QmAowQM2kL5q8TnoeMF5MfSmPeeKHz4d_tkLUJT_NgjSYe/s1600/Vietnam+West+Lake.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpkMpUGOSzhIDLFyCUDgKRMP0ZgeruvaBdWad0TnZQF0d4nNdI44BQdsplbUZfP1yQQeGr6Mwa8H3GCUT2vSUwb4f0TmuuX3QmAowQM2kL5q8TnoeMF5MfSmPeeKHz4d_tkLUJT_NgjSYe/s400/Vietnam+West+Lake.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461139264564828914" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>The Youth Road can be compared to a beautiful bridge spanning across the two large bodies of water - West Lake to the northwest and Truc Bach Lake to the southeast. This 992-metre-long road has been made into two-lane road with a line of big trees grown in between the lanes. On either side of the road is grown with flamboyant trees, weeping willow trees and Bang Lang trees. In summer the road looks colorful with the many flamboyant trees in blossom and Bang Lang trees with violet flowers. </div><div>The west lake area is estimated at 480 hectares, being the biggest lake in the city. A road that runs around the lake is as long as 12 kilometers. It passes several flower-growing villages such as flower Nghi Tam village, Tay Ho, and Peach tree planting Nhat Tan village. Situated nearby the lakeside road are several famous pagodas and temples such as Phu Tay Ho and Kim Lien Pagoda. In feudal regimes many royal palaces and rest houses have been built to used as resort places for kings and senior court officers. Now Ho Tay has been earmarked for the city's major tourism development center.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JNokjY6EdKiiyB8vr4_k0RHmcf0qVOSMHP8ltPHeKwmyWPE2MWfSXqvXLHQIrmG1dPuK-_pDZevfpN7UHKgklHWWCxIKt5mk1j-VulLhBBC5xoLUvUr4P9M5G7A2KZdEXCumLYax2xxL/s1600/Ho+Chi+Minh%27s+Mausoleum.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JNokjY6EdKiiyB8vr4_k0RHmcf0qVOSMHP8ltPHeKwmyWPE2MWfSXqvXLHQIrmG1dPuK-_pDZevfpN7UHKgklHWWCxIKt5mk1j-VulLhBBC5xoLUvUr4P9M5G7A2KZdEXCumLYax2xxL/s400/Ho+Chi+Minh%27s+Mausoleum.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461140173078720306" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>After two years of construction, the mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh was officially inaugurated on August 29,1975. The facade of the mausoleum faces the historic Ba Dinh Square. </div><div> The mausoleum is divided into three layers with a combined height of 21.6 meters. The lowest layer forms a terraced stand exclusively used for the presidium of grand meetings organized at the grassy Ba Dinh Square. The second layer is the central piece of the mausoleum where the remains of the president is kept in a chamber accessible through a series of passages and flights of marble staircases. The upper part of the mausoleum is the roof resembling a three terraced steps. The facade of the upper part bears an inscription "President Ho Chi Minh" made of dark violet precious stone. </div><div>The mausoleum is the place to keep the remains of President Ho Chi Minh, the great patriotic who had been conferred the title "World Cultural Activist" and the national hero. The conferment was made on the occasion of the centenary anniversary of President Ho Chi Minh's Birthday (1890-1990). </div><div>The mausoleum project was the results of artistic labor of both Vietnamese and former Soviet Union scientists in respect for President Ho Chi Minh.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Ho Chi Minh Museum</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTEKRKNsLqPqQIn-yhTokVBViSlGx-v7eEbSyikA3vXz0KtNz026lf0k6ZFIbALQMktxX54gkY8Y_5C30e40lNFADF2JEKBsyPklQHwWKySsnd3KAcV_xfAF6P8RokzIbyVPG3q3APi7a-/s1600/Ho_Chi_Minh_museum,_Hanoi_2.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTEKRKNsLqPqQIn-yhTokVBViSlGx-v7eEbSyikA3vXz0KtNz026lf0k6ZFIbALQMktxX54gkY8Y_5C30e40lNFADF2JEKBsyPklQHwWKySsnd3KAcV_xfAF6P8RokzIbyVPG3q3APi7a-/s400/Ho_Chi_Minh_museum,_Hanoi_2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461142267053650002" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>The museum displays relics about the life and work of President Ho Chi Minh, a cultural figure and hero of the national liberation movement (1890-1969). The museum was inaugurated on May 19,1990, the anniversary of the Centenary Birthday of President Ho Chi Minh. </div><div> Address:3 Ngoc Ha St, Hanoi. Tel:(84-4) 8263752 or 8255435</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The History Museum</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGQhmGn7EWp4Nr47sZioolyJ6I_pS8CzknWdDJNmqgfiUyKa91eEaHkM2Mst7FIXivsHmVedwQ7NmIV4hV7B0ywkhxI5jAaPOUplb3iuJi1mKOKFCii4EO29LOQt2ezxCVYkg3nv0aQEGz/s1600/The+History+Museum.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGQhmGn7EWp4Nr47sZioolyJ6I_pS8CzknWdDJNmqgfiUyKa91eEaHkM2Mst7FIXivsHmVedwQ7NmIV4hV7B0ywkhxI5jAaPOUplb3iuJi1mKOKFCii4EO29LOQt2ezxCVYkg3nv0aQEGz/s400/The+History+Museum.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461142413974351010" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 261px; " /></a></div><div>The museum is a national museum. It was founded in 1926 and named "Ecole d'Etreme Orient." In 1958 it was restored and renamed the Vietnam History Museum. On display are rich collection of archaeological findings of great scientific and artistic value, illustrating the development of the nation and the State of Vietnam from the dawn of its history to the period prior of the coming into being of the Vietnam Communist Party. </div><div>Address: 1 Pham Ngu Lao St, Hanoi. Tel:(84-4) 8252835 or 8253518</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Revolution Museum</b></div><div><br /></div><div>The museum is a national museum. It was founded in January 1959, It exhibits relics from various phases of the Vietnamese people's patriotic and revolutionary struggle from the founding of the Vietnam Communist Party up to the present day. </div><div>Address: 25 Tong Dan St, Hanoi. Tel:(84-4) 8253766 and 8254151 or 8254323</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Army Museum</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge_mnRb9B8FxzNmpPSAAwj9IDXJYe1wIwMhrBDlBmo6rOD-p4DvFXP8vE2D5ZEzQX9p6Iqeu9TCx6tO3-HnpZnSDc3tUxGSVbNXMyZejIkqJA5GckVJq1jOSg9SRn6hPBYyJx2pQbPJWJv/s1600/hn_flag_tower_1.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge_mnRb9B8FxzNmpPSAAwj9IDXJYe1wIwMhrBDlBmo6rOD-p4DvFXP8vE2D5ZEzQX9p6Iqeu9TCx6tO3-HnpZnSDc3tUxGSVbNXMyZejIkqJA5GckVJq1jOSg9SRn6hPBYyJx2pQbPJWJv/s400/hn_flag_tower_1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461142902634201954" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>The museum is a national museum which was established in June 1959. War relics and trophies reminisce great periods of the armed struggle of the Vietnamese people. Evolutions of the two recent great historic battles: the Dien Bien Phu battle in 1945 and the Ho Chi Minh Campaign in 1975 are unfolded again on miniature models. </div><div>Address: 28A Dien Bien Phu St, Hanoi. Tel: (84-4) 8234264</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>The Fine Arts Museum</b></div><div><br /></div><div>This is a national museum founded in June 1966. It displays art works and objects of the various nationalities living in Vietnam in every period. Prominent are collections of painting of great values by such famous contemporary artists as To Ngoc Van, Nguyen Phan Chanh, Tran Van Can and Bui Xuan Phai, etc,. </div><div>Address: 66 Nguyen Thai Hoc St, Hanoi. Tel: (84-4) 265801 or 233084</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Wartime sites</b></div><div><b>Hoa Lo Prison ("The Hanoi Hilton")</b>, 1 Hoa Lo, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi. Open 8:30AM to 11:30AM and 1:30PM to 4:30PM, admission 10,000 dong. This prison was built by the French at the turn of the 20th century, in classical French prison design. This is where the French imprisoned and executed many of the Vietnamese freedom fighters. Now a museum (2/3 of the prison was torn down to make way for the Hanoi Towers), the museum exhibits the brutal French colonial regime and the struggle of the Vietnamese people against imperialism in chilling detail. The prison was also known as the "Hanoi Hilton" during the Vietnam War as it held American POW's shot down. Little emphasis is given to this period however, and the exhibits shown can be frustratingly skewed in propaganda, choosing to show solely propaganda photos of prisoners being treated well and playing basketball, playing chess, and other staged events. They also claim to have John McCain's flight suit from when his plane was shot down but its beyond me how they knew he would subsequently become a United States senator and thus the importance of his particular suit.</div><div><b>B-52 Lake - Huu Tiep Lake - Ngoc Ha Precinct, Ba Dinh District</b>— Until December 19, 1972, this was just a small brackish pond just off Hoang Hoa Tam Street, about 1km west of the mausoleum. On that day, in a twisted retelling of the Hoan Kiem legend (see above), Vietnamese anti-aircraft guns (possibly with the help of flying turtles) retook the enemy's eight-engined, 100-ton sword and sent it too, to the shallow bottom of the lake, where it remains today.</div><div><b>Downed Aircraft Memorial</b>— Along Thanh Nien Street on Truc Bach lake there is a stone plaque commemorating the shooting down of a U.S. Navy (not "USAF" as depicted) aircraft in 1967. Peruse the Vietnamese script and you can pick out the name of John McCain, one of the airmen.</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Get Around</b></div><div><div>Taxis are the best way to travel long distances, but the cyclos, or pedicabs, are a cheap way to make shorter trips. Taxi fares are not always consistent, and the rates for each taxi company have not been standardized. For lone travelers, rides on the back of motorbikes (actually low-powered scooters) are popular too (known as xe om, literally meaning motorbike-hug).</div><div>Some meter taxi owners in Hanoi will attempt to negotiate a flat fee in advance rather than use the meter. If you have a fair idea of how far you're going or how much you're willing to pay, this is probably a good idea. If the driver refuses, turning around and walking away will almost certainly change his mind. Don't sweat it, it's all part of the expected negotiation protocol. It has also become common for the drivers of some of the less reputable taxi companies to "fix" their meters to run faster hence giving differences in prices for the same distance by a factor of 30! The recommendation is to only use the reputable and reliable taxi companies. These are Hanoi Taxi (Tel (04) 38 535353), Taxi CP (Tel. (04) 38 262626), Mai Linh Taxi (Tel. (04) 38 616161). Another common thing with taxis is that the driver takes you for a "sightseeing" - and extends the tour to make more money. This is very hard to discover unless you know the city well, but if you catch your driver doing this (e.g. going around Hoan Kiem Lake twice), demand that he stop the taxi and leave the taxi without paying.</div><div>Be very careful with meter taxis in Hanoi. Some have central locking , and are known to lock passengers in , and demand large amounts of US dollars before letting them go. The driver may threaten to have you beaten up or arrested should you not give in to his demands , but if you kick up enough of a fuss , they will let you go.</div><div>Motorbike drivers can be found on virtually every corner, especially in the Old Quarter. Expect to be offered a ride every half-block (or more). You should absolutely negotiate a fare in advance, and again, turn around and walk away if you don't like their offer. There are far more drivers than tourists, and they know it - your fare could be the only one they get all day. You should also write down the negotiated fare (with all zeros) to avoid confusion. Even if you do speak Vietnamese, a driver might pretend that you said 50,000 dong instead of 15,000! In case of argument over fares after the ride, keep calm and repeat the original agreement (remember, you have the leverage). A typical 10 minute fare should cost no more than 15,000-20,000 dong. Many drivers will accept US dollars as well. At the end of a ride, some will offer to hang around to drive you to your next destination - either be clear that you don't want a return ride (and don't go near him when you leave), or get a price in advance. Otherwise, you might be surprised when the driver tacks on several million dong for having waited.</div><div>Keep your wallet out of arms reach of the drivers when you pay, less honest motorbike drivers are not adverse to grabbing your wallet and helping themselves to any notes they like the look of before jumping on their bike and speeding off.</div><div>Negotiate first or avoid using the cyclos services, they demand 200,000VND (US$12) for a short ride of less than 100 metres. At the end of the journey, a few men will come over to translate, and they will pretend to help and later insist that you pay the demanded amount.</div><div>Motorcycles can be rented for around US$5-6 a day, and can be arranged by most hotels. This is good for making lots of trips around the city for individuals or duos, but be careful: Hanoi traffic is very difficult place to sharpen motorbike skills. Park on the sidewalk with other bikes, and be sure to lock the front wheel. Locals will help arrange the bikes near their stores.</div><div>Scam free, cheap but a bit difficult to comprehend at first, the buses in Hanoi are relatively fast and surprisingly comfortable. Pick up a map with printed bus lines at the Trang Tien street (the book street by the Opera house) and spend a few minutes to identify the over 60 bus lines, find your bus stop, wait for the bus, pay 3000 dong and off you go. If you are unfamiliar with the city, make sure to inform the conductor where you want to get off.</div></div></div>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-29445084434859977472010-04-04T00:05:00.000-07:002010-04-04T02:03:13.436-07:00Hong Kong Island "The Pearl of East, Shopping Paradise"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dm7ROE9r0FePrXdrXhZqWk-uCMEKFhTtkC7ixhOHJ0pdZObn_zOCetdl3wAazT_yK4SRMNx0tvp7rnxLsia1RibbmNzyza7U4NhWUZNgwR7Z46Fompntlrkq8mZ3WVQQTaEohH3I0X8v/s1600/hong+kong.jpeg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 284px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dm7ROE9r0FePrXdrXhZqWk-uCMEKFhTtkC7ixhOHJ0pdZObn_zOCetdl3wAazT_yK4SRMNx0tvp7rnxLsia1RibbmNzyza7U4NhWUZNgwR7Z46Fompntlrkq8mZ3WVQQTaEohH3I0X8v/s400/hong+kong.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456187708472360450" /></span></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dm7ROE9r0FePrXdrXhZqWk-uCMEKFhTtkC7ixhOHJ0pdZObn_zOCetdl3wAazT_yK4SRMNx0tvp7rnxLsia1RibbmNzyza7U4NhWUZNgwR7Z46Fompntlrkq8mZ3WVQQTaEohH3I0X8v/s1600/hong+kong.jpeg"></a></span><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Hong Kong Island is the island that gives this its name. Although it is not the largest part of the territory, it is the place that many tourists regard as the main event. The parade of buildings that make the Hong Kong skyline has been likened to a glittering bar chart that is made apparent by the presence of Victoria Harbour. To get the best views of Hong Kong, leave the island and head for the Kowloon waterfront.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The great majority of Hong Kong Island's urban development is densely packed on reclaimed land along the northern shore. This is the place the British colonisers took as their own and so if you are looking for evidence of the territories colonial past, then this is a good place to start. Victoria was once the colony's capital but has been rebranded with a more descriptive name, Central. Here you will find the machinery of government grinding away much as it always has done, except Beijing, not London, is the boss that keeps a watchful eye. Seek a glimpse of government house (香港禮賓府) which was formerly home to 25 British governors and is now the residence of the Chief Executive. Nearby, the Legislative Council (Legco) continues to make the laws that organise the territory.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Leading up from Central is the Escalator and the Peak Tram, which pass through the hip district of Soho and the residential Mid-Levels. Up top is The Peak, the tallest point on the island where foreign diplomats and business tycoons compete for the best views of the harbour from some of the most expensive homes to be found anywhere. Most tourists don't go much further than the Peak Tram, but take a short walk and you will escape the crowds and be rewarded with some of the best harbour views. It is worth investing in a good map from leading bookshops in Central if you want to enjoy some of the superb footpaths that crisscross the island.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The southern side of the island has developed into an upmarket residential area with many large houses and expensive apartments with views across the South China sea. The islands best beaches, such as Repulse bay, are found here and visitors can enjoy a more relaxed pace of life than on the bustling harbour side of the island.</span></div></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Peak Hong Kong</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS0SHYGTXqXSp7qMzR2AlJ79O89po_CYpZoO2U4B0_xMl6mI_fCoRRKunsHoO31O1ALM-ucgaQoEbqEpcmXWGs8WbzMjgvCoa49UZYAY7U5_KD-1pXTjTEkyaWTy9p96gD-BBI0W_lSCsg/s1600/the+peak+hong+kong.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS0SHYGTXqXSp7qMzR2AlJ79O89po_CYpZoO2U4B0_xMl6mI_fCoRRKunsHoO31O1ALM-ucgaQoEbqEpcmXWGs8WbzMjgvCoa49UZYAY7U5_KD-1pXTjTEkyaWTy9p96gD-BBI0W_lSCsg/s400/the+peak+hong+kong.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456175968433805570" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br />There's a reason why The Peak is one of the most popular attractions in Hong Kong: It is absolutely incredible! Looking down from The Peak you'll be amazed by the spectacular view of the surrounding city skyline, the world-famous Victoria Harbour and Kowloon, towering skyscrapers and peaceful green hillsides.<br /><br />Getting there is an unforgettable trip. There's nothing in the world like the Peak Tram. Pulled by steel cables, the tram climbs 373 metres (about 1,200 feet). It's so steep that the buildings you pass look like they're leaning at a 45°angle! Whether you're going up or coming down, you'll love this trip.<br /><br />And now this fabulous vista has been further enhanced by the 2006 revitalisation of one of Hong Kong's most striking landmarks, The Peak Tower. Even more than before, it's a destination in its own right.<br /><br />Once on The Peak, there are a number of locations providing magnificent views of the city below. For great continuous unfolding vistas, take the Peak Circle Walk or go directly to the Lugard Road Lookout for fabulous views over the harbour. There are more great vistas from the Lions View Point Pavilion and the viewing terrace at the<br />Peak Galleria, as well as the Peak Tower Sky Terrace.<br /></span><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">How To Get There</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Peak Hong Kong</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1. Take the Peak Tram from the Lower Peak Tram Terminus on Garden Road (Bus 15C from the lay-by outside Central Pier 6 or walk from MTR Central Station Exit J2).</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">2. Bus 15 from Exchange Square Bus Terminus (MTR Hong Kong Station Exit D)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">3. Green minibus 1 from MTR Hong Kong Station Public Transport Interchange.</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Madame Tussauds</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEDHtXybMdOhb1bYKzR4h7hwZiCTUN_9hchX7ZDyqla4urvJkAte9JwR2BsTy2M-i2zWCTevLGBNrUEghjs_VwXWxoBXJGN5WsFE-jQh1FZroZruy691gKDJ_wdQM4GumHpnUmkqb_UzR0/s1600/Madame+Tussauds+Hong+Kong.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEDHtXybMdOhb1bYKzR4h7hwZiCTUN_9hchX7ZDyqla4urvJkAte9JwR2BsTy2M-i2zWCTevLGBNrUEghjs_VwXWxoBXJGN5WsFE-jQh1FZroZruy691gKDJ_wdQM4GumHpnUmkqb_UzR0/s400/Madame+Tussauds+Hong+Kong.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456176824494744706" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></span></a></span></b></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Following a major makeover costing HK$20 million, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is offering visitors an unprecedented hands-on multimedia experience at its celebrity waxworks museum. The world-famous attraction now features more than 100 incredible wax likenesses of stars, world leaders and sports heroes displayed in five totally interactive themed settings that are spread over three floors within the completely refurbished Peak Tower complex. It's an amazing experience like no other! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Visitors to the new-look Madame Tussauds Hong Kong cannot only meet their favourite idols but also join them in doing whatever has made them famous – all to the accompaniment of appropriate background sounds. You can putt with Tiger Woods, shoot hoops with Yao Ming, dance on stage with Aaron Kwok and even step into a Rembrandt painting! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Guests can stroll through the attraction stopping to mingle with the stars and celebrities in the themed areas of Hong Kong Glamour, Music Icons, Historical and National Heroes, The Champions and World Premiere. You are allowed to pose with any of the wax models and even have your picture taken professionally. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Those more inclined to the international stage can stand alongside President Hu Jintao as he steps from his plane to the rapturous applause of the welcoming committee, or obtain an official seal of approval from Barack Obama as you address the nation from the presidential podium. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">If you ever wondered how these models are made, you can watch the fascinating wax figure-making process being demonstrated. There's also a souvenir shop featuring a full range of exciting souvenirs and gifts. </span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">How To Get There</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Madame Tussauds Hong Kong</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1. Take the Peak Tram from the Lower Peak Tram Terminus on Garden Road (Bus 15C from the lay-by outside Central Pier 6 or walk from MTR Central Station Exit J2).</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">2. Bus 15 from Exchange Square Bus Terminus (MTR Hong Kong Station Exit D)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">3. Green minibus 1 from MTR Hong Kong Station Public Transport Interchange.</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Hollywood Road, Cat Street, Man Mo Temple</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqIKHUCq_k6SQCvnRq8t2Q2k2Li40wdNwDh7PZQ3tnzbduVs2-FwIYQORXhGW-719rqMSdrQuE_YJgvKc8lc5vzo5zXyB0kLI8he0jfk00B7_LCz2L9nwjy86edmO5uEFAJTQYZTdactN8/s1600/Hollywood+Road,+Cat+Street,+Man+Mo+Temple.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqIKHUCq_k6SQCvnRq8t2Q2k2Li40wdNwDh7PZQ3tnzbduVs2-FwIYQORXhGW-719rqMSdrQuE_YJgvKc8lc5vzo5zXyB0kLI8he0jfk00B7_LCz2L9nwjy86edmO5uEFAJTQYZTdactN8/s400/Hollywood+Road,+Cat+Street,+Man+Mo+Temple.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456178003367543074" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></span></a></span></b></div></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Hollywood Road and Upper Lascar Row (also known as "Cat Street"), are must-see stops on every visitor's itinerary. Crammed with antique shops and an open-air curio market, these quaint locales are ideal places for picking up eclectic souvenirs and gifts. Everything from Ming dynasty furniture and lotus lamps to Mao badges and ancient snuff bottles is on sale here. Bargain hunters will also enjoy the stalls on Ladder Street, just a few metres downhill - and bargaining over price is all part of the game. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Nearby Man Mo Temple is a picturesque tribute to the God of Literature (Man) and the God of War (Mo). The temple is located about halfway along the road and a stop in its quiet, incense-shrouded interior makes a pleasant break. You can see giant incense coils hanging overhead. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">At the western end of the road is Hollywood Road Park, where a photo display shows the original old settlement close to this area.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">How To Get There</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Hollywood Road / Cat Street / Man Mo Temple</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1. Bus 26 outside Pacific Place at Admiralty to Hollywood Road and get off near Man Mo Temple.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">2. MTR Central Station Exit D2 and turn right to Theatre Lane. Walk along Queen's Road Central towards The Center. Then take the Central - Mid-Levels Escalator to Hollywood Road.</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Western Market</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2a3ab0IHMI808tifPbU1p6Mm5dB0fDerS9ZCwl0jSQn_Ot6oxi1UXZMDU9Gary5NncCOSqD6QDj3ydMlzlcR9cQuHd8WZP55hp8DAm4ZFPVo3iwcwLoIc9TzUTIlLcYSQ7X1l-7LqAwc_/s1600/western_market.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2a3ab0IHMI808tifPbU1p6Mm5dB0fDerS9ZCwl0jSQn_Ot6oxi1UXZMDU9Gary5NncCOSqD6QDj3ydMlzlcR9cQuHd8WZP55hp8DAm4ZFPVo3iwcwLoIc9TzUTIlLcYSQ7X1l-7LqAwc_/s400/western_market.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456178182441264466" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 311px; " /></span></a></span></b></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Western Market, renovated in 1991 and converted into a shopping complex, is an Edwardian-style building featuring shops selling arts and crafts and fabric. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Completed in 1906, the impressive building has a red brick exterior with a handsome granite arch over its entrance. The market now houses shops formerly located in old alleys in the heart of Central, which sold all manner of cloth. The building is also home to traditional handicraft stalls and a number of cafes. The top floor is home to the Grand Stage where dance lovers can rendezvous and enjoy a romantic dinner.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">How To Get There</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Western Market</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">MTR Sheung Wan Station Exit B or C.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Lan Kwai Fong</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjw_wkLNUqjLDgnjiu7X2RT871PMV0xi8wvIiaH_YpW8OubxJQLtdsPfHqJfnpTVuKMyKcgAU_A_geWCaG7U7F3Y8a2MVNRgNjtSirfXkmU5J_A-gw9I22j5KyFcW1yX859T1Msb-7bDT9/s1600/Lan+Kwai+Fong.JPG"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjw_wkLNUqjLDgnjiu7X2RT871PMV0xi8wvIiaH_YpW8OubxJQLtdsPfHqJfnpTVuKMyKcgAU_A_geWCaG7U7F3Y8a2MVNRgNjtSirfXkmU5J_A-gw9I22j5KyFcW1yX859T1Msb-7bDT9/s400/Lan+Kwai+Fong.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456178716134757874" style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></a></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">When the lights go down, the "in crowd" heads for Lan Kwai Fong, a buzzing centre of clubs, bars and restaurants. This cheerful warren of Western-style restaurants, nightclubs, delicatessens and bars is a must for night owls and people watchers. Lan Kwai Fong is an L-shaped, cobble-stoned lane surrounded by Central's cluster of skyscrapers. Nearby lanes are also buzzing with bistros and pubs in Hong Kong's trendiest nightlife area. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">SoHo </span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Stroll along nearby Hollywood Road and you'll soon discover Hong Kong's "SoHo", the area "South of Hollywood Road". It offers a wide range of upmarket international restaurants and bars along Staunton Street, Elgin Street and Shelley Street. Jump on what Guinness World Records calls the world's longest covered escalator and experience the cosmopolitan atmosphere of this popular food district. Here you'll enjoy international fare from New Orleans to Nepal, Mexico to Malaysia, Provence to Portugal.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">How To Get There</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Lan Kwai Fong </span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">MTR Central Station Exit D2. Walk along Theatre Lane and uphill to D'Aguilar Street. About 5 minutes walk to Lan Kwai Fong.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">SoHo</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">MTR Central Station Exit D2, and turn right to Theatre Lane. Walk along Queen's Road Central towards The Center. Then take the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Golden Bauhinia Square</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiNPot7UwTBilFMWto-4dhJD4EKPJPZs4-enfgexnkClS5vUeMNl0bn3yimrNBViW4GOhDTepNcD6p7r86AEj5323IdVLZSQHmAHcYaEkRjvigkDi3xscluoZ3AicR6iDCHJd9Lu7ZtA_K/s1600/Golden+Bauhinia+Square.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiNPot7UwTBilFMWto-4dhJD4EKPJPZs4-enfgexnkClS5vUeMNl0bn3yimrNBViW4GOhDTepNcD6p7r86AEj5323IdVLZSQHmAHcYaEkRjvigkDi3xscluoZ3AicR6iDCHJd9Lu7ZtA_K/s400/Golden+Bauhinia+Square.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456179711500320466" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></a></span></b></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Expo Promenade (also known as Golden Bauhinia Square) outside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on the Wan Chai waterfront marks the most significant occasion in Hong Kong's history - the return of the former British colony to the People's Republic of China, and the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The handover took place in the convention centre with President Jiang Zemin and other dignitaries representing China, and Prince Charles present to witness the relinquishment of what had often been described as "the richest jewel in the British Crown". </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The main ceremonies took place on the night of 30 June 1997. The Hong Kong SAR came into being on 1 July under its Chief Executive, Shanghai-born former shipping magnate, Tung Chee-Hwa. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The "Forever Blooming Bauhinia" Sculpture (Golden Bauhinia) is a gift from the Central Goverment to mark the widespread joy of the people at the return of the territory to the Motherland after more than 150 years. Other gifts to commemorate the historic occasion were sent by each of China's provinces, autonomous regions and other territories. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Near the Golden Bauhinia stands the Reunification Monument bearing inscriptions of President Jiang Zemin's calligraphy.</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">How To Get There</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Golden Bauhinia Square ( Expo Promenade )</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">MTR Wan Chai Station Exit A5. Walk across the footbridge, head right and through the lobby of Central Plaza, continue on across the connecting overhead walkway, then descend to ground level. Head towards the waterfront ahead and the statue and monument is on the left. About a 15-minute walk.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Happy Valley Racecourse</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70BfU4-p9yjIy54uI3A0aRToiX2HcvwYw0yN0eT9yyXW7-bc-MGS0C3ELNV5_xjwaNsMzv8R4MGf4RDF44FdWHviYnYUnS4zkxkDWDZojdTMUd7XgENlIwBbEZ1IEtzu3oSY267yTOFGQ/s1600/Happy+Valley+Racecourse.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70BfU4-p9yjIy54uI3A0aRToiX2HcvwYw0yN0eT9yyXW7-bc-MGS0C3ELNV5_xjwaNsMzv8R4MGf4RDF44FdWHviYnYUnS4zkxkDWDZojdTMUd7XgENlIwBbEZ1IEtzu3oSY267yTOFGQ/s400/Happy+Valley+Racecourse.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456180298579972290" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></a></span></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Attending a race meeting under the dazzling lights of the Happy Valley Racecourse is an opportunity to capture the essence and the vitality of Hong Kong Chinese culture. This magnificent course has been the home of Hong Kong horse racing since the first meeting was held on a strip of reclaimed marshland in 1846. To enjoy all the action of this spectacle, join a Come Horseracing Tour during the annual September to early June / July horseracing season. Today, the track is ultra-sophisticated with computerised betting and horse races broadcast live on gigantic screens. Night racing was introduced in 1973 and was an immediate success. For sheer excitement and the opportunity to rub shoulders with the locals, nothing beats a night at the horse races in Happy Valley. The nearby Hong Kong Racing Museum offers a fascinating glimpse of the sport's exciting history.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">How To Get There</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Happy Valley Racecourse</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1. MTR Causeway Bay Station Exit A, walk along Wong Nai Chung Road towards Happy Valley Racecourse for about 20 mins.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">2. Take tram to Happy Valley Tram Terminus.</span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Jumbo Kingdom</span></span></div><div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNIhJrGfNW35erl8g0uMRul4PkRlbagQdzn7fx08Feso6jk9XU7Sh24epwCOr-TPRbOqnvW3Exof1j4cVK1e4bCUz2hpuVdHSTKOkNt4mbb0L9zGs4qF1Rc69cYG6pnl3Ww7zi5HtJ0rv8/s1600/Jumbo+Kingdom.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNIhJrGfNW35erl8g0uMRul4PkRlbagQdzn7fx08Feso6jk9XU7Sh24epwCOr-TPRbOqnvW3Exof1j4cVK1e4bCUz2hpuVdHSTKOkNt4mbb0L9zGs4qF1Rc69cYG6pnl3Ww7zi5HtJ0rv8/s400/Jumbo+Kingdom.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456181865709413522" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></a></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Feel like dinner amidst the sumptuous surroundings of a Chinese palace? Welcome to the Jumbo Kingdom, one of Hong Kong's truly unique attractions. Since its opening in 1976 as the Jumbo Floating Restaurant, it has excelled in the preparation of seafood for discerning diners. The restaurant, designed like a classic Chinese palace, can accommodate up to 2,300 people. Situated in Aberdeen harbour, the Jumbo is one of the world's largest floating restaurants and a tourist icon. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Jumbo underwent renovation in early 2003 and transformed itself into what is now called Jumbo Kingdom - a modern complex of fine dining, shopping, sightseeing and cultural attractions. The multifaceted Jumbo Kingdom has a "six-star" gourmet restaurant, which provides excellent quality food featuring traditional Chinese and modern fusion dishes, an open-deck cafe and restaurant, a wine garden and a tea garden.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">How To Get There</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Jumbo Kingdom</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Bus 70 from Exchange Square bus terminus (MTR Hong Kong Station Exit D) to Aberdeen terminus. Cross highway via subway (pedestrian tunnel), turn right, walk to dock for free boat ride to floating restaurant or take bus 75 from Exchange Square bus terminus to Shum Wan Shuttle Ferry Pier for the free boat ride.</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Ocean Park</span></b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8pmOL2endHbt2f6QTy1umK3ozHp_cqU0T3Vis7z6TSpS_Fjhyphenhyphen7cUevA6E_Nzxawo7mY4-mbQaGjRYKAJurT-HGQ3hzi830G7RWvIi8rhBAFtwbvMfvNZ7rorIdNMYOgabxq2mZofYfbs/s1600/ocean-park-cable-car.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt8pmOL2endHbt2f6QTy1umK3ozHp_cqU0T3Vis7z6TSpS_Fjhyphenhyphen7cUevA6E_Nzxawo7mY4-mbQaGjRYKAJurT-HGQ3hzi830G7RWvIi8rhBAFtwbvMfvNZ7rorIdNMYOgabxq2mZofYfbs/s400/ocean-park-cable-car.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456182080241475426" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></a></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Opened in 1977, Ocean Park Hong Kong is one of Hong Kong's favourite attractions, featuring rides, exhibits and conservation facilities. Ocean Park is located on the southern side of Hong Kong Island, covering more than 870,000 square metres of land. There are three attraction areas, which are the Lowland, the Headland and Tai Shue Wan. The three areas are connected by a cable car, outdoor escalator which is the second longest in the world and Ocean Express. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">At the 'Amazing Asian Animals' exhibit you can visit some of Asia's rarest animals! Take the interactive journey of discovery at the 'Giant Panda Adventure' where you will get to know some of the Asia's most precious native animals like giant pandas, red pandas, Chinese giant salamanders and Chinese alligators. Admire the spectacular display of goldfish at the 'Goldfish Treasures' exhibit. Visit the colourful birds and playful Asian small-clawed otters at the 'Panda Village'. There's also the 'Panda Kingdom Shop' for the perfect panda-inspired souvenirs and the 'Panda Café' for relaxation and refreshments. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The whole family can also experience the joy and thrill of SkyFair, a huge helium-filled balloon measuring 22 metres in diameter which soars more than 100 metres into the sky.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Other popular attractions have included the Ocean Theatre, Abyss Turbo Drop, the Mine Train and new and fun-filled entertainment facilities are introduced from time to time and the Master Development Plan is now underway.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The park is also home to a fascinating Sea Jelly Spectacular, featuring more than 1,000 sea jellies of all sizes from all over the world. The Sea Jelly Spectacular offers a sensational undersea voyage for you to experience this most amazing undersea creature. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Ocean Park Hong Kong is committed to promote and support animal conservation in Hong Kong and throughout the Asia region. It has, in cooperation with other conservation organisations, launched various conservation programmes for a number of endangered species, including whales and dolphins. In addition, it has successfully bred rare species of birds, sharks and butterflies.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">How to Get There</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Ocean Express</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Enjoy a fantastic voyage on the Ocean Express, the latest quick, smooth, thrilling and fun way to travel from the Ocean Park Waterfront to the excitement at the Summit. Built to transport up to 5,000 people per hour in each direction, the Ocean Express funicular train can shuttle guests via a 1.3 kilometre tunnel between the Park’s two main sites in just 3 minutes. The train is designed to resemble a submersible vehicle, and offers a vivid experience that simulates a journey through the ocean’s depths. Be ready for some surprises with creatures of the deep. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Repulse Bay </span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPl2i9ZJuyRpaEGgcg2GA3EQUzB3UL7XVYyYxMsJq9jwN3faUE8GNDJwVnKKCdDQxEO7v4i_4S834skYHCwc8BV7S_rRN2kZCViJ2ws9XfUB4r35-uhYw_cyFgi83KshmZ2-9CkWHlDw_E/s1600/Repulse+Bay.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPl2i9ZJuyRpaEGgcg2GA3EQUzB3UL7XVYyYxMsJq9jwN3faUE8GNDJwVnKKCdDQxEO7v4i_4S834skYHCwc8BV7S_rRN2kZCViJ2ws9XfUB4r35-uhYw_cyFgi83KshmZ2-9CkWHlDw_E/s400/Repulse+Bay.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456182071491978050" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px; " /></span></a></span></b></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Primarily an upmarket residential area, sun-drenched Repulse Bay has a relaxed resort-like atmosphere. The wide, wave-lapped beach is popular with locals and visitors alike and great for sandy strolls in the early morning when the sun is up and the sunbathers are out in force, or at sunset when all is at peace. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This crescent-shaped stretch of sand is one of the most beautiful beaches in Hong Kong. The beach features a lifeguard clubhouse built in traditional Chinese style. Its ceiling is decorated with magnificent swirling dragons. Towering twin statues of Kwun Yum and Tin Hau, both protectors of fishermen dominate the picturesque gardens that lead down to the beach.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The nearby colonial-style, The Repulse Bay, houses designer shops and award-winning restaurants and resembles the luxury hotel built in 1920 that originally occupied the site. Most of the grounds were redeveloped into luxury apartments more than 20 years ago. Only the original arcade remains.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">How To Get There</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Repulse Bay </span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Bus 6, 6A, 6X, 66 or 260 from Exchange Square Bus Terminus (MTR Hong Kong Station Exit D) and alight at Repulse Bay.</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><h1 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:20pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Stanley Market & Murray House</span></span></h1><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY06PtBpV10JMDI175tLFLnEusXqQCx7wM7YvIqmQrXmV2LvjTsiVP3ux9lmpt0sqNLnKELuJFlvs2D-5q9TxioE6T_V3KM5InIyt1CB6vqQdt5XvhN4jdNkfGlvkF7VoZH9P4VGTwKftQ/s1600/Stanley+Market+%26+Murray+House.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY06PtBpV10JMDI175tLFLnEusXqQCx7wM7YvIqmQrXmV2LvjTsiVP3ux9lmpt0sqNLnKELuJFlvs2D-5q9TxioE6T_V3KM5InIyt1CB6vqQdt5XvhN4jdNkfGlvkF7VoZH9P4VGTwKftQ/s400/Stanley+Market+%26+Murray+House.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456182694357483586" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 325px; " /></span></a></span></div><h1 style=" font-weight: bold; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; color: rgb(83, 197, 223); font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:20pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-weight: normal; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">A popular market town on the sunny south side of Hong Kong Island, Stanley's relaxed ambience, crisp sea environs and bargain buys have made it world famous.</span></span></h1></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Seven days a week the open market around Stanley New Street and Stanley Market Road throbs with the passing parade of life as bargain-hunters from all over the world join in the fun of haggling with shopkeepers and stallholders. Choose from brand-name clothing and accessories, or simply irresistible souvenirs, ornaments and other Oriental knick-knacks. The market is open from 10:30am to 6:30pm. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Stanley also has beautiful beaches that are popular with windsurfers. And when you're feeling peckish, you'll find a wide variety of funky bars and great restaurants to enjoy. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Among the more interesting restaurant sites on the waterfront is Murray House, a 160-year-old restored three-storey colonial building that was dismantled in 1982 from its original site in Central and then rebuilt in Stanley. It was restored in 1998 and now houses the Hong Kong Maritime Museum as well as restaurants.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Situated beside Murray House is Blake Pier at Stanley. Originally located in Central, Blake Pier was first dismantled in 1965 and later relocated to Morse Park to form the roof of the Morse Park pavilion. Now it has returned to its role as a public pier in Stanley, complementing the colonial architectural style of Murray House.</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Aberdeen</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4581c6WvuIe3txxIwMNohcQNDoo8k59t6IkgXEZaVg8vzkwbbroD_Ro72uUuPhLEZjXHtsPhOEaSkLST3Dh-UVWHO7IpcsuU5hOEBwx5yCHlrFRrcDlQVYb3yR84qzWU1SHaVOka73KJu/s1600/Aberdeen.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4581c6WvuIe3txxIwMNohcQNDoo8k59t6IkgXEZaVg8vzkwbbroD_Ro72uUuPhLEZjXHtsPhOEaSkLST3Dh-UVWHO7IpcsuU5hOEBwx5yCHlrFRrcDlQVYb3yR84qzWU1SHaVOka73KJu/s400/Aberdeen.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456183229673233362" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></a></span></b></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Aberdeen harbour is home to hundreds of people living on fishing junks. Their traditional lifestyle is dramatically juxtaposed against a modern high-rise community spread over the nearby hillsides. In the evenings, the thousands of twinkling lights reflected on the water are a magical sight. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">To get a close-up look at the Aberdeen way of life, many visitors take in the view from the magnificent floating restaurant anchored here. Three storeys high and elaborately decorated with swirling red and gold dragons and other traditional Chinese motifs, the experience is not to be missed. Neither, of course, is the delicious fresh seafood and the excellent Cantonese fare on offer. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Aberdeen is also the site of Ocean Park, one of Southeast Asia's largest oceanariums and theme parks.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">How To Get There</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Aberdeen - Fishing Village & Typhoon Shelter</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1. Bus 70 from Exchange Square bus terminus(MTR Hong Kong Station Exit D), and get off near Aberdeen Promenade.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><div>During your stay in Hong Kong, there is no better way to experience the city’s fascinating local attractions, tantalising tastes and unique heritage than by hopping on a tram. </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Shopping Malls</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-WOpsPosgA3vSKMdUhoXOFaHM5-6k08c6rQglq08qI-zmyuvNEV1tOb1Loc_XID18uwQQJ5Q_VJsDlUlKVKfQeOd1O84WyOYEp_D3p9tgGfho-ILVCGAhHOwFnP3forU4FaywthU_KDo7/s1600/The+Wing+On+Department+Stores.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-WOpsPosgA3vSKMdUhoXOFaHM5-6k08c6rQglq08qI-zmyuvNEV1tOb1Loc_XID18uwQQJ5Q_VJsDlUlKVKfQeOd1O84WyOYEp_D3p9tgGfho-ILVCGAhHOwFnP3forU4FaywthU_KDo7/s400/The+Wing+On+Department+Stores.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456203982260453570" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 320px; " /></a><br /><br /></span></b></div><div><b><div>The Wing On Department Stores (HK) Ltd</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Established in 1907, Wing On is one of the leading department store chains in Hong Kong. Wing On offers the customers a wide range of quality merchandise sourced regionally and from overseas with the convenience of one-stop shopping complemented by friendly customer service.</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Exclusive for Visitors:</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Visitors with valid passports or any travel documents, can apply for a Tourist Shopping Pass. Upon presentation of the Tourist Shopping Pass, visitors can enjoy a 5% - 10% discount. For details, please check with the stores' sales personnel. </span></div><div><br /></div><div>Times Square</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_YN4LdJvYjiazx5k8ScsGxfs2p3_ew-iNFDTVOU5Ig05XPgP2DhDeEjNnLqD-z23yxJc0e8ds15PR1_x9hHWc9El1qxxt4qOVaKw5msTmbVcMy_9pSDSGKXXWNkhlMpLEAeQEjSSFKpkT/s1600/times+square.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_YN4LdJvYjiazx5k8ScsGxfs2p3_ew-iNFDTVOU5Ig05XPgP2DhDeEjNnLqD-z23yxJc0e8ds15PR1_x9hHWc9El1qxxt4qOVaKw5msTmbVcMy_9pSDSGKXXWNkhlMpLEAeQEjSSFKpkT/s400/times+square.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456203969882505170" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 258px; " /></a></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">The largest mall in Causeway Bay, Times Square has more than 230 shops, offering an exciting range of products as well as great dining establishments. Food Forum offers 20 restaurants featuring a wide variety of delectable and exquisite world-class culinary delights. Definitely a must-visit dining and shopping landmark!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div>Exclusive for Visitors:</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Receive a complimentary welcome gift at 2/F Concierge desk of Times Square by presenting a passport of Australia, Japan, Korea, New Zealand or South East Asia.</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Sogo Hong Kong Co Ltd</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqgY4LzZn4dI0sch2lY7js_ojI6VILSUQmfAZlPtiwLTgFgrR_f1l8MJkN9la4bGNshqVOKg0Zt8qZvpJ25_8Km05lBu_6oFVETuM-5kRgxHavfiEhjd5J46nqjayq2d4ObDnuobh6pwMS/s1600/Sogo+Hong+Kong+Co+Ltd.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqgY4LzZn4dI0sch2lY7js_ojI6VILSUQmfAZlPtiwLTgFgrR_f1l8MJkN9la4bGNshqVOKg0Zt8qZvpJ25_8Km05lBu_6oFVETuM-5kRgxHavfiEhjd5J46nqjayq2d4ObDnuobh6pwMS/s400/Sogo+Hong+Kong+Co+Ltd.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456204699770063410" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 335px; " /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">SOGO Causeway Bay is currently the largest Japanese-style department store and one of the major shopping landmarks in Hong Kong. SOGO stores offer a wide selection of products including renowned European brands of men's and ladies' fashions, skin care & cosmetics, jewelries, leather series, electrical appliances and home supplies and there are also supermarkets at the stores.</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Lane Crawford</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><b><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLXvJEr0CVJePld9QnhpBngVkVnDoIc3sS8t5bY9XP9lPwlilMczl2ZF_jJelB26NO3eWbG-ZoDfaQMwA2f1WbOe5UNlMbN0t3-WXI4Qiw7rJElhjliA-Il1iDHUlQs86rpQAh8ktEYmEV/s1600/Lane+Crawford+hk.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLXvJEr0CVJePld9QnhpBngVkVnDoIc3sS8t5bY9XP9lPwlilMczl2ZF_jJelB26NO3eWbG-ZoDfaQMwA2f1WbOe5UNlMbN0t3-WXI4Qiw7rJElhjliA-Il1iDHUlQs86rpQAh8ktEYmEV/s400/Lane+Crawford+hk.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456204711907331010" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 307px; " /></a></span></div></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Lane Crawford is delighted to invite you to discover Asia's leading specialty store. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Within Lane Crawford's luxurious and innovatively designed stores, customers will find the largest assortment of international designer brands. Every season, Lane Crawford presents a unique edit of the world's best in Womenswear, Menswear, Shoes and Accessories, Jewellery, Cosmetics, and Home and Lifestyle collections.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">wtc more</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Situated in the heart of Causeway Bay, World Trade Centre – wtc more is a favourite shopping mall with trendy shoppers looking for stylish fashion, accessories and branded handbags. Among the 20 world-class restaurants at wtc more, AT Corner, Kiriyaki and rice paper are MICHELIN recommended restaurants, while half of the 20 restaurants offer panoramic views of Victoria Harbour.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">The Peak Galleria</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">The Peak Galleria, situated at The Peak, is famous for its Art Deco architecture. It offers international cuisine and a dazzling array of shops selling gifts and locally designed unique products. The mall also features its environmental Green Terrace on the top level where visitors could enjoy both the magnificent panoramic view of Victoria Harbour and the natural beauty of Pokfulam Reservoir.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">ifc mall</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr-cQIiOV-dTXRiwUf87G0hk273Z3hYa4g7IJuIgzmDRdo35JWUPZXAVjs910UgM4iWSJPq_5P07V7O6gGfLnXR08geG9CDQJY3a8hIvNPsQtC2CKNPn0vaJoSwmBn8LK3ygF8zbFkgjfX/s1600/ifc+mall.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr-cQIiOV-dTXRiwUf87G0hk273Z3hYa4g7IJuIgzmDRdo35JWUPZXAVjs910UgM4iWSJPq_5P07V7O6gGfLnXR08geG9CDQJY3a8hIvNPsQtC2CKNPn0vaJoSwmBn8LK3ygF8zbFkgjfX/s400/ifc+mall.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456205084713686674" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">ifc at Central waterfront is one of Hong Kong’s leading business and leisure destinations. Comprising a unique combination of high-end shopping and entertainment outlets, prestigious offices and Hong Kong’s finest hotel and suite hotel – Four Seasons Hotel and Four Seasons Place, the 4.7 million square feet complex offers a truly inspiring working, shopping and living experience.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Housing around 200 international brands, ifc mall is located at the heart of Hong Kong and is easily accessible from all forms of public transport.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">ifc mall’s harbourside position and airy architecture also add a sense of relaxation to an afternoon of shopping and a touch of magic to an evening out.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Exclusive for Visitors:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Tourists are welcome to register at the concierge with valid travel documents to receive a complimentary 'ifc Tourist Passport' and enjoy over 100 exclusive privileges at ifc mall. </span></div></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Ding Ding Tram</b></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkqfh47bk1ReP1icTSo3Ic-dTYRLT_F2s3vdVKUAWkrvpdErRpT9xgfJDopsY_SlMgov9rS5IXCf9CChhwizva_xBr-sv0UQ7lAtW1X3KMBXefhyphenhyphen_PRwFIMwXAl39zra0P_Yli6j2hcqTD/s1600/'Ding+Ding%27+Hong+Kong+Tram+Guide.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkqfh47bk1ReP1icTSo3Ic-dTYRLT_F2s3vdVKUAWkrvpdErRpT9xgfJDopsY_SlMgov9rS5IXCf9CChhwizva_xBr-sv0UQ7lAtW1X3KMBXefhyphenhyphen_PRwFIMwXAl39zra0P_Yli6j2hcqTD/s400/'Ding+Ding%27+Hong+Kong+Tram+Guide.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456200818707537090" style="cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div>Locally known as 'Ding Ding', the tram has been an essential part of Hong Kong Island’s daily life for over a century. Take a trip with our 'Ding Ding' Hong Kong Tram Guide and explore over one hundred culinary and cultural experiences selected by local celebrity Craig Au Yeung.</div></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;">Street Markets</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Adventurous travellers should head straight for these funky markets that best illustrate Hong Kong's living culture. Each of these markets has its own charm and contains hidden treasures just waiting to be uncovered. Even better, you can haggle! Great for all kinds of consumer goodies.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div>L<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><div style="display: inline !important; ">adies' Market (Tung Choi Street)</div></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje9-_RC86yv7rw2MRlMFAJ4ziyiIgl1ST7LdMBlBhc7Mnqb72QRbPXo1nSPdRvoCi9VeYZEEN6Csk9O_W-_Cz-Ud8b9CnTnMipz2v-91OZRw75d7vaVbszN9-0b3jRdKo9IAiL5As-CHm_/s1600/ladies+market.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje9-_RC86yv7rw2MRlMFAJ4ziyiIgl1ST7LdMBlBhc7Mnqb72QRbPXo1nSPdRvoCi9VeYZEEN6Csk9O_W-_Cz-Ud8b9CnTnMipz2v-91OZRw75d7vaVbszN9-0b3jRdKo9IAiL5As-CHm_/s400/ladies+market.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456201998876246594" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></a></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Ladies' Market in Tung Choi Street is the place for bags, accessories and inexpensive women's clothing. Men's and children's clothing and toys are also on sale. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon (MTR Mongkok Station Exit E2)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">noon – 11:30pm</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><div style="display: inline !important; "><br /></div></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><div style="display: inline !important; ">Temple Street Night Market</div></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-8ErV1ndB05NKr_V0XPynFArHxA-YEM9GZrP8ddo3B0dtFYT_3eA_Pbpq_oQnicCQomOURLRTLO9uGxbbk2OYry_sK3Kqnt9UHTZwab3Gn589IVkInC-sM87aBy_cdSEzAxSHvp-bzwco/s1600/Temple+Street+Night+Market.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-8ErV1ndB05NKr_V0XPynFArHxA-YEM9GZrP8ddo3B0dtFYT_3eA_Pbpq_oQnicCQomOURLRTLO9uGxbbk2OYry_sK3Kqnt9UHTZwab3Gn589IVkInC-sM87aBy_cdSEzAxSHvp-bzwco/s400/Temple+Street+Night+Market.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456202293698516226" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></a></span></div></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Temple Street Night Market is ordered chaos in action and the perfect place to pick up a few bargains. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Temple Street is awash with rows of brightly lit stalls hawking an astonishing variety of clothing, pens, watches, CDs, cassettes, electronic gadgets, hardware and luggage. The busy food stalls offer a range of delicacies including fresh seafood and hotpot dishes to tempt your appetite. Fortune-tellers cluster at the Yau Ma Tei end of the street, and so do Chinese opera enthusiasts seeking kindred spirits for impromptu performances. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Simply absorbing Temple Street is a memorable experience. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon (MTR Jordan Station Exit A. Turn right into Jordan Road, then right into Temple Street)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">4pm - midnight</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><div style="display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span">Stanley Market</span></div></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Stanley Market is the perfect place to buy something special for friends or relatives. The historic lanes in this old fishing village are jam-packed with vendors selling Chinese artwork, silk collectibles and curios, as well as larger-sized clothing. Plan to stay for a few hours and sample the fine restaurants in the restored Murray House or along the main street on the waterfront. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Stanley Market Road, Stanley, Hong Kong Island (MTR Hong Kong Station Exit D and take bus 6, 6A, 6X, 66 or 260 from Exchange Square Bus terminus, Central)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">10:30am – 6:30pm</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><div style="display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span">Jardine's Crescent</span></div></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">A long, packed roadside market great for inexpensive clothing, accessories and domestic goods. Tiny stalls have goods tumbling off tables and shelves into shoppers' bags. Many stalls feature hair-related items, bags, women's tops and blouses, fine knits, cellphone accessories and household items, and at the end is a small wet market and flower stalls with very low prices. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Jardine's Crescent, Causway Bay, Hong Kong Island (MTR Causeway Bay Station Exit F) </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">11am – 9:30pm</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><div style="display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span">Li Yuen Street East and West</span></div></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Find ready-to-wear garments or have them made to order. Featuring great designs, fine silk and other fabrics, traditional styles and beautiful colours. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Li Yuen Street East and West, Central, Hong Kong Island (MTR Central Station Exit C then walk along Des Voeux Road Central towards Sheung Wan)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">10am – 7pm</span></div></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Magical Victoria Harbour</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx6L7QJ7Nuc6UP7zYkKHRwdBj_5o7sQWEKEKOpXgq6nNcIZkq2MzFcWOGSSHtfykfoBdJLbcpnAmlwz7sYSD5G2fvThQ5NF2i9AArGnxe5cIWKpKVmERvKEYso8N70G6IuBBdqsw3vHzPV/s1600/Magical+Victoria+Harbour+hong+kong.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx6L7QJ7Nuc6UP7zYkKHRwdBj_5o7sQWEKEKOpXgq6nNcIZkq2MzFcWOGSSHtfykfoBdJLbcpnAmlwz7sYSD5G2fvThQ5NF2i9AArGnxe5cIWKpKVmERvKEYso8N70G6IuBBdqsw3vHzPV/s400/Magical+Victoria+Harbour+hong+kong.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456184082334404114" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px; " /></span></a></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Victoria Harbour is one of Hong Kong's greatest assets, a jewel that people marvel at, no matter how many times they visit the city. People come from all over the world to see and admire it. </span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Spectacular Harbour Views </span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrUwYZ37zxwm31S2Ar77xDsudTztK4z_I1qCZaQDxn0_X86vrircEBXxCEixcDDfNccM1vvmfU9G1tHEn-2pnfRTYHJD_7q1-myppBBXyCnhKAVc18sDIhPdkAMN35qe1G19wnTJ85G1WI/s1600/harbour+view.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrUwYZ37zxwm31S2Ar77xDsudTztK4z_I1qCZaQDxn0_X86vrircEBXxCEixcDDfNccM1vvmfU9G1tHEn-2pnfRTYHJD_7q1-myppBBXyCnhKAVc18sDIhPdkAMN35qe1G19wnTJ85G1WI/s400/harbour+view.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456184267839509970" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 242px; " /></span></a></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Travel up to The Peak or visit the Avenue of Stars along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade for spectacular harbour views and to catch the magnificent A Symphony of Lights, featuring more than 40 Hong Kong's skyscrapers in a stunning multimedia extravaganza.</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">A Symphony of Lights</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM8_nu0swhz2nwFCZBj34Jd7mxTBGd-sdviX-w6q5qGxaegN97jXFr18QjEFJ668Zt8Syw15SsHhC06AWBqeCD1XSTJ_vuzxf61cU7BFaw_1GyCZzTNORSWP1RlCM0Gk5EpuOXwvw3m5d6/s1600/A+Symphony+of+Lights.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM8_nu0swhz2nwFCZBj34Jd7mxTBGd-sdviX-w6q5qGxaegN97jXFr18QjEFJ668Zt8Syw15SsHhC06AWBqeCD1XSTJ_vuzxf61cU7BFaw_1GyCZzTNORSWP1RlCM0Gk5EpuOXwvw3m5d6/s400/A+Symphony+of+Lights.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456184768177575298" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></a></span></b></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This spectacular multimedia display, already named the "World's Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show" by Guinness World Records, has been further expanded to include more than 40 buildings on both sides of Victoria Harbour.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The show creates an all-round vision of coloured lights, laser beams and searchlights performing a stunning, unforgettable spectacle synchronised to music and narration that celebrates the energy, spirit and diversity of Hong Kong. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">There are five main themes — Awakening, Energy, Heritage, Partnership and the finale, Celebration. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">For the best view of A Symphony of Lights, take a harbour cruise or head to the waterfront promenades on either side of Victoria Harbour*. The show, organised by the Tourism Commission, is a must-see event on any visit to Hong Kong.</span></div></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Starry Nights of Delight </span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">There is no better way to capture the magic of the harbour than by taking a nighttime cruise aboard a ferry where you'll be able to enjoy A Symphony of Lights, the stunning multimedia show featuring more than 40 Hong Kong skyscrapers in a dazzling extravaganza. </span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Touring the Harbour </span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ACgGIGRZo_qU4xL7RsyQ2Rx4qUkMH_6-RA7eSzJLRqYZRIQaBaT8hDqOPQrpuTnoD7KipYjeUqXE76df2cojfXZX_jQh-YY07XKl5WbJrIesDcW8k6j14EFBoXfmN5xkKts_52wJHOda/s1600/Chinese+junk+hong+kong.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ACgGIGRZo_qU4xL7RsyQ2Rx4qUkMH_6-RA7eSzJLRqYZRIQaBaT8hDqOPQrpuTnoD7KipYjeUqXE76df2cojfXZX_jQh-YY07XKl5WbJrIesDcW8k6j14EFBoXfmN5xkKts_52wJHOda/s400/Chinese+junk+hong+kong.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456184974787491090" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></a></span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Victoria Harbour bustles with activity day and night. To experience the energy take a ride on the Star Ferry, a harbour cruise or a ride in a traditional Chinese junk.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Beaches</span></b></div><div><div><b><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><b><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqwWJQ1HHSNFdjWi7P6hUu3L5PYcnahUvY2-MiYdq1iJ77OfIcqqw6fzTF-_C3xXj6shwocTEzL6XYs3dTcoxFhFgzPIPx3TdW7nPcPZanXG3j8kuKPHmt5Wt7fSnAFTZAUR3nptjcnCtm/s1600/Golden+Beach.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqwWJQ1HHSNFdjWi7P6hUu3L5PYcnahUvY2-MiYdq1iJ77OfIcqqw6fzTF-_C3xXj6shwocTEzL6XYs3dTcoxFhFgzPIPx3TdW7nPcPZanXG3j8kuKPHmt5Wt7fSnAFTZAUR3nptjcnCtm/s400/Golden+Beach.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456186033779788786" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></a></span></b></div></span></div></b></span></div></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The ultra-sophisticated Gold Coast Resort looks much like a Mediterranean resort magically transplanted to the shores of Hong Kong. It features a world-class hotel, a convention centre, a shopping mall and a marina club, as well as its man-made Golden Beach and palm-shaded Promenade dotted with kiosks. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Golden Beach is the largest public beach in Tuen Mun and the first artificial beach in Hong Kong. At 545 metres long, it covers a total area of 7.85 hectares. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The 480-metre-long Promenade, flanked by tropical trees and flowers, has kiosks selling snacks and drinks. These all blend well with the hotel and shopping mall both in terms of architecture and colour scheme. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Adding to the French Riviera atmosphere is an art area called Gold Coast Montmartre where, every Saturday and Sunday afternoon, street art, handicrafts and other forms of culture find expression. This is the first specific location for street art and culture of its kind in Hong Kong.</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">How To Get There</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Golden Beach (Hong Kong Gold Coast)</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1. Bus 52X from MTR Mei Foo Station Exit A or bus 962 from Admiralty (outside Pacific Place) and get off near the Gold Coast.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">2. Bus K51 from MTR Tuen Mun Station Exit F2.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><b><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Deep Water Bay Beach</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoNWcib3fIFM48SfIqAmvqQQGvU4JALhmX3lIBjUeHIs5SgZjw1WeNnUvPu0AlG7dHUyATOpahHL8TBpDg6AXuJXL5OsBBGZjYKmqaBSznKUO1N7RUEKrCvl-T04wWjJACpyoOUEWSoW6B/s1600/deep+water+bay+hong+kong.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoNWcib3fIFM48SfIqAmvqQQGvU4JALhmX3lIBjUeHIs5SgZjw1WeNnUvPu0AlG7dHUyATOpahHL8TBpDg6AXuJXL5OsBBGZjYKmqaBSznKUO1N7RUEKrCvl-T04wWjJACpyoOUEWSoW6B/s400/deep+water+bay+hong+kong.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456186565086308018" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></a></span></div></b></div></div><div><b><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This attractive bay is one of the most popular haunts for people seeking fun in the sun or beachside barbecue. This stretch of beach lies just off a scenic coastal road running from Aberdeen to Shek O on the south side of Hong Kong Island. The beach is flanked by rows of flame trees and higher up are the imposing cliff-side mansions of the super rich. The beach is next to the Hong Kong Golf Club's annex. There is a scenic path that winds along the coast from here to Repulse Bay.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">How To Get There</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Deep Water Bay Beach</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Bus 6, 6A, 6X or 260 from Exchange Square bus terminus and get off across the road from Deep Water Bay Beach.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Shek O Beach</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdlJ0t4LugBvFAosMmqALS-ptBUxMKA2ckt-34Mu8dkbgNFQxL-33LP1Kx8hGPptyH2RD15zFIxbfwVdyCkzMGg03Yu9IJwDdrYPmFJYzo9n317yktmhEv1d18gnfMuI-9fuHx02yrLDY2/s1600/Shek+O+Beach.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdlJ0t4LugBvFAosMmqALS-ptBUxMKA2ckt-34Mu8dkbgNFQxL-33LP1Kx8hGPptyH2RD15zFIxbfwVdyCkzMGg03Yu9IJwDdrYPmFJYzo9n317yktmhEv1d18gnfMuI-9fuHx02yrLDY2/s400/Shek+O+Beach.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456186870022176226" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span></b></div></span></div></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Seen from the hill above, the popular seaside destination of Shek O looks like a picture-postcard image of an ancient Chinese community. Its ambience is still traditional and rustic, in dramatic contrast to the millionaires' mansions on the surrounding hillsides and headland. The exclusive golf and country club nearby is where they play. Many others make for the golden sands of Big Wave Bay, where Bronze Age rock carvings can be found.</span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">How To Get There</span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Shek O Beach</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Bus 9 from MTR Shau Kei Wan Station Exit A3 bus terminus and get off at the Shek O Bus Terminus.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Nightlife</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">clubs are concentrated in Central, Sheung Wan, Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui (TST). The quality of these venues varies considerably and will perhaps disappoint those expecting something similar to London, Paris or New York. There is certainly no gay area as there are in many Western cities. Dim Sum magazine, available for free in most cafes, eateries bars and clubs, is Hong Kong bilingual's GLBT magazine which gives a pretty good idea about gay and lesbian parties and events happening in Hong Kong. There's also a gay and lesbian section in HK Magazine (free, only in English) and TimeOut Hong Kong.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Club 1997, 9 Lan Kwai Fong, Central, ☎ +852 2186-1897. has a gay happy hour on Fridays between 19:00 and 21:00. Expats and locals like to meet up here for a drink or two before starting off their weekend. Free entrance. </span></div><div><b><div style="display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><div style="display: inline !important; "><div style="display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div></div></span></div></b></div><div><b><div style="display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><div style="display: inline !important; "><div style="display: inline !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Fruit-i-licious, Rockschool, 2/F The Phoenix, 21-25 Luard Rd., Wanchai, ☎ +852 2510-7339 (fruitilicious.hk@gmail.com). is the new kid on the block that welcomes everybody, gay or straight, who wants to have a good time before the weekend starts. An event held usually every third-Thursday of the month, Fruit-i-licious is the city only straight-friendly social evening, with drag act, live performance, burlesque shows. $50 entrance, incl. one standard drink, all proceeds goes to a women's project empowering women in the Southeast Asian region charity; door opens at 8pm, gets busy at about 9pm. </span></div></div></span></div></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Fruits in Suits. is not a bar per se, but a social evening that takes place once a month, usually on the second or third Tuesday and they change their venue from time to time. Check out their website for more information. It attracts a mixed crowd of expats and local, and you don't have to be in suit to attend. Entrance is usually less then $100.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Kolours, 16 Arbuthnot Rd., Central, (kolourshk@gmail.com). took over from its former site where DYMK used to be. The newly opened bar with two floors attracts a younger Asian crowd.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">New Wally Matt Lounge, 5A Humphrey's Ave., Tsim Sha Tsui (TST), ☎ +852 2721-2568. originally known as Waltzing Matilda, the lounge is now probably the oldest gay bar in Hong Kong, according to its website, and certainly the only one over on the Kowloon side. It caters mainly to the local crowd. Free Entrance. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Propaganda, 1 Hollywood Rd., Central, ☎ +852 2868-1316. This is the sister nightclub to Works that attracts a fair number of travellers. The entrance can be hard to locate, so you can follow the crowd that migrates along Hollywood Road when Works starts to fade. PP, as the locals like to call it, is popular and attracts a good selection of people. Do not expect it to get busy until after midnight. Entrance fee, as of Dec 2009, is $280.00 (cheaper before 11PM and after 3AM). </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Volume, 83-85 Hollywood Rd., Central, ☎ +852 2857-7683. is a Hong Kong gay bar with a big attitude, plenty of room to dance and a few dark nooks for getting to know someone better. Co-owners Joseph Chan and Evan Steer (aka DJ Stonedog) go out of their ways to make every visitor to Volume feel welcome. For newcomers, there's no better deal in the city than the free vodka doled out every "New Arrivals Wednesday." before 9PM. The bar gets busy at around 11:30PM until 2AM and is popular with expats and locals alike. Free entrance, unless if they have special event. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Works. (closed for renovation at the time or writing, and is expected to reopen early 2010) is located approximately 2 mins away from Lan Kwai Fong. Before the renovation, the bar was frequented by older gentlemen and got busy at around 11PM. On Fridays, an entrance to Works may also buy you a free ticket to their sister club Propaganda.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Zoo Bar, 33 Jervois Rd, Sheungwan, ☎ +852 3583-1200 (enquiry@zoobar.com.hk). located in the low-key, discreet residential district of Sheung Wan, the bar's relaxed atmosphere is a good place to meet up with friends or to get a drink before headed out for a more hardcore night. You can typically expect around 20 percent of the customers to be western people. Thursday nights are bear nights, and is popular among Asian bears. Free Entrance. </span></div></span></div></span></div></b></div></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-18983757607109570092010-03-29T07:11:00.000-07:002010-03-29T08:34:01.976-07:00Antarctica "A land of extremes"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKk2vIo1j-OnuFpj5tr2dCav05rgn21q_IbeeFPXdfr8w2N36XK4gHiOs3vvP-06kFpaE2T5gfnShseRcwMFVzKhEU-Hy9odYzpS0Mi2F0hjTx4lJSAH3TJrTiuMR6GYDRhm9_TRto3LXB/s1600/antartica.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKk2vIo1j-OnuFpj5tr2dCav05rgn21q_IbeeFPXdfr8w2N36XK4gHiOs3vvP-06kFpaE2T5gfnShseRcwMFVzKhEU-Hy9odYzpS0Mi2F0hjTx4lJSAH3TJrTiuMR6GYDRhm9_TRto3LXB/s400/antartica.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454077846840281634" /></b></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><b><br /></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:sans-serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 19px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;font-size:13px;"><b><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: normal; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; font-family:Georgia, serif;font-size:16px;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Antarctica is a land of extremes: it is the coldest and driest continent on Earth and has the highest average elevation. As the fifth largest continent in the world, Antartica is also the most Southern, overlying the "South Pole". Scarcely touched by humans, the frozen land boasts breathtaking scenery, broken by only handful of scientific bases and a "permanent" population of scientists numbering only a few thousand. Visitors to Antarctica generally must brave rough sea crossings aboard ice-strengthened vessels, but those who do are rewarded with amazing scenery and tremendous and unique wildlife.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Although several countries have laid claim to various portions of Antarctica, it is governed by the 1958 Antarctic Treaty, which establishes the continent as a peaceful and cooperative international research zone. There are no cities per se, just some two dozen research stations with a total population ranging from 1000-4000 depending on the time of year. These are maintained for scientific purposes only, and do not provide any official support for tourism. The laws of the nation operating each research station apply there.Private travel to Antarctica generally takes one of three forms: 1) commercial sea voyages with shore visits (by far the most popular), 2) specially mounted land expeditions, or 3) sightseeing by air. Approximately 80 companies belong to the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, a membership organization which regulates non-research travel to the region. In the 2005-2006 summer season, an estimated 26,250 people visited Antarctica or the surrounding waters.</span></div></span></span></div><br /></b></span></span><div><b>Deception Island </b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgblL9oGGEi2enfAp-RdlI5RLZGOrsM7d7USIQJFeqfa4TE3N6Ou5xHqVWtsI_9y24Eaof7Q91vIF422BVvM8GzMskWdevUst57GSqQDrTvicnC7SjF0KNKBd7tuv2SdI4J1Jo_HPU8nDZL/s1600/Deception_Island.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgblL9oGGEi2enfAp-RdlI5RLZGOrsM7d7USIQJFeqfa4TE3N6Ou5xHqVWtsI_9y24Eaof7Q91vIF422BVvM8GzMskWdevUst57GSqQDrTvicnC7SjF0KNKBd7tuv2SdI4J1Jo_HPU8nDZL/s400/Deception_Island.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454064506633957650" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 253px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>Long ago, volcanic pressure on Deception Island resulted in a tremendous eruption that caused the island’s peak to explode. The resulting caldera flooded with seawater, creating the unique landmass that you may visit today. Thousands of Chinstrap Penguins inhabit the volcanic slopes of the island, along with nesting Pintado Petrels and Antarctic Terns.</div><div><br /></div><div>Nestled among the South Shetland Islands, Deception Island is easily recognized on a map by its horseshoe shape. Its collapsed volcanic caldera is breached at Neptune's Bellows and makes for one of the world's safest natural harbors, despite the volcano's periodic eruptions. Ships enter the relatively calm waters of Port Forster (12km/7.5mi wide) through the caldera's breach that is surrounded by snow-covered hills that reach 580m (1900ft). The island has an interesting history - it was a base for several early exploratory missions - and is still a disputed territory between the Argentineans and the British, however nowadays they seem to get along.</div><div><br /></div><div>The volcano is still very active and its eruptions have caused evacuations and considerable damage to the stations there (during the 1920-21 whaling season the harbor water boiled and stripped the paint off the ships' hulls). The most recent eruption was in 1991-92.</div><div><br /></div><div>Part of what brings the tourist ships here is that the volcanic activity thermally heats the waters of Pendulum Cove (so-called because of the British pendulum and magnetism experiments held there last century) and you can take a dip. It's not deep enough for swimming and most tourists don the togs more for the photograph and the story afterwards than for breaststroking. You do have to be careful, however, because if you move even a meter from the warm water you might find your skin blistering from a near-boiling patch or goosebumping from an unheated patch. There are large colonies of chinstrap penguins on the exterior coast, but few marine animals enter the harbor because there are numerous volcanic vents that heat the water to several degrees above the sea surrounding the island. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Paradise Bay</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSNN_knljs1JsQe0PpF-0w-48mEDSl2_Nx5KcFAqWgyHdtfVwmlBBnuXnPVXhPZLH7y-CMKZC49yHrN8o6Oh_Sas5_QmbAOM6kACdgfcOxCQ5dhkwlLr60QKV2nkYPiSahvYs8A6TCNwGd/s1600/paradise+bay+antarctica.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSNN_knljs1JsQe0PpF-0w-48mEDSl2_Nx5KcFAqWgyHdtfVwmlBBnuXnPVXhPZLH7y-CMKZC49yHrN8o6Oh_Sas5_QmbAOM6kACdgfcOxCQ5dhkwlLr60QKV2nkYPiSahvYs8A6TCNwGd/s400/paradise+bay+antarctica.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454066848284127010" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>Immense glaciers and a bay filled with icebergs can be expected at Paradise Bay. Often whales and seals can be seen in the water, and penguins on the shores. A picture perfect, and typical Antarctic landing location.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Neko Harbour</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8T4LxUQ8da8v4iVqOBG1-3S0DmOoKqBIlq436f6KnqfvfQXukB3eQNqw89UN_XH74yNp5o2VxsJO-dXQtfCXovU6hHAUJXmfaUOdtT0tnAHSksqRmzr7q_QAqOI0zQcnaUmriM71iw2ni/s1600/Neko+Harbour+antarctica.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8T4LxUQ8da8v4iVqOBG1-3S0DmOoKqBIlq436f6KnqfvfQXukB3eQNqw89UN_XH74yNp5o2VxsJO-dXQtfCXovU6hHAUJXmfaUOdtT0tnAHSksqRmzr7q_QAqOI0zQcnaUmriM71iw2ni/s400/Neko+Harbour+antarctica.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454068404213702626" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>Not far from Paradise Bay, Neko Harbour is a popular landing spot for voyages to Antarctica. Gentoo penguins call this place home.</div><div><br /></div><div>Watch a glacier breaking off into the ocean. To fully appreciate the harbor, you must view it from the top of the mountain. At the top, the sound of the glacier breaking off could be heard like thunder, just like at the beach, but on the mountain you did not have to worry about a large wave coming.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Half Moon Island</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOk_MDpwtkKA_ClyrM5XASZPqX11i9cR8amUenhIxTU9uOjowjC3bzPWArE27Nb1Ltrd2bWpsmWw3zJRTUdj5CUvMQv7bv-2_Rw9TrNfrXggJXy7lqRE3rA4N6k96zZJBBlC8nlHR_j0BK/s1600/Half+Moon+Island+antarctica.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOk_MDpwtkKA_ClyrM5XASZPqX11i9cR8amUenhIxTU9uOjowjC3bzPWArE27Nb1Ltrd2bWpsmWw3zJRTUdj5CUvMQv7bv-2_Rw9TrNfrXggJXy7lqRE3rA4N6k96zZJBBlC8nlHR_j0BK/s400/Half+Moon+Island+antarctica.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454069227950536466" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 200px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>One of the most pleasant landings in Antarctica, Half Moon Island has a sizable rookery of chinstrap penguins as well as nesting Antarctic terns and kelp gulls. Whales are often seen patrolling the shores, and this small island offers stunning views of surrounding mountains.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Port Lockroy</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUmkoUDoRcckUUPW-PMcsM6wtB52ZOvl1CbsAFqPMa50qqqeT8yNwsxUPk25VPEaK7B5JrE0vyyUutqfETv8_QTliWZMDnoX8Nxb9X_vg6sinao9Qj3c_xWpHfNpQlhxmaS-JpiXG7fbvT/s1600/Port+Lockroy+antarctica.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUmkoUDoRcckUUPW-PMcsM6wtB52ZOvl1CbsAFqPMa50qqqeT8yNwsxUPk25VPEaK7B5JrE0vyyUutqfETv8_QTliWZMDnoX8Nxb9X_vg6sinao9Qj3c_xWpHfNpQlhxmaS-JpiXG7fbvT/s400/Port+Lockroy+antarctica.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454069779012479778" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 264px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>Port Lockroy is a natural harbour on the Antarctic Peninsula of the British Antarctic Territory. After its discovery in 1903 by the French Antarctic Expedition it was used for whaling and British military operations during World War II and then continued to operate as a British research station until 1962. Goal was to protect interests in the Southern Ocean. In 1996 Port Lockroy was renovated and is now a museum and Post office operated by the United Kingdom Antarctic Heritage Trust. It is designated as Historic Site no. 61 under the Antarctic Treaty and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Antarctica. Proceeds from the small souvenir shop fund the upkeep of the site and other historic sites and monuments in Antarctica.</div><div><br /></div><div>A major experiment on the island is to test the effect of tourism on penguins. Half the island is open to tourists, while the other half is reserved for penguins. So far, interestingly, the results show that tourism has a slight positive effect on penguins, possibly due to the presence of people being a deterrent to skuas - Antarctic birds that prey on penguin chicks and eggs.</div><div>Nearby you can visit a gentoo rookery and also see blue-eyed shags (cormorants) and witness sad reminders of past whaling activities.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Stromness</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjUe7Yl6OzNb6oFCwCvPZfV02s39CEHtviQT6_uLXCe_l5vaHz8cLHpu5amQVg_PFu19_RCvPSbu_dOqwHApq8ZxQq7BdOsaQR2kZ141bJKphpgUvbFXe6qX1l92xHkhyG1jdHpZBwHx0O/s1600/Stromness+antarctica.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjUe7Yl6OzNb6oFCwCvPZfV02s39CEHtviQT6_uLXCe_l5vaHz8cLHpu5amQVg_PFu19_RCvPSbu_dOqwHApq8ZxQq7BdOsaQR2kZ141bJKphpgUvbFXe6qX1l92xHkhyG1jdHpZBwHx0O/s400/Stromness+antarctica.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454071624785964546" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>The most amazing place for wildlife like king penguins,elephant seals, fur seals, whales etc as well as the place where Shackleton was rescued after his arduous journey in James Caird.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Vinson Massif</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_JXDZSWxFwTHw0PBzkOhi13gqtdSewinThFKysFT3vDFG75XQEY2Li_3m4SrhN1xtByRDP1GWESSmfuJa4zfi5N489_wu3UxN8cM1JVvfwtwKT1cbXH285TkIs9SdKJKw9OqOg_Mkibsk/s1600/Vinson+Massif+antarctica.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_JXDZSWxFwTHw0PBzkOhi13gqtdSewinThFKysFT3vDFG75XQEY2Li_3m4SrhN1xtByRDP1GWESSmfuJa4zfi5N489_wu3UxN8cM1JVvfwtwKT1cbXH285TkIs9SdKJKw9OqOg_Mkibsk/s400/Vinson+Massif+antarctica.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454071919990327378" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>Situated in Antarctica, the Vinson Massif is the highest peak of the continent, and one of the Seven Summits. Part of the Sentinel Range of Ellsworth Mountains, Vinson Massif is about 21km long and 13km wide. It is named after Carl G Vinson, a Georgia Congressman who was a major force behind the US Antarctic exploration in the 20th century. The mountain was first climbed in 1966 by the American Alpine Club and the National Science Foundation.</div><div><br /></div><div>While the climb is not considered that difficult technical, it is considered challenging nonetheless because of the extreme environment, including strong winds and very cold temperatures. Temperatures of -20 to -30 degrees Fahrenheit are not uncommon.</div><div><br /></div><div>Getting there:</div><div>Mount Vinson is usually accessed via chartered flight from Punta Arenas to Patriot Hills, and then another flight to Base Camp on the Branscomb Glacier. The trip from Patriot Hils to Base Camp is approximately 6 hours.</div><div><br /></div><div>Vinson Massif is located about 1,200km away from the South Pole, near the Antarctic Peninsula.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Dry Valleys</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfifj6xTvJ6u4vcEVR-7dfSVqNZ3thAcKOBycKzIPMFgbmrHsYfpAN58Hjh4qRRlKpeHD3JsWH9A72U5hBJtw91T0uSK44VBV1jiS3qDmEc3qpeKl-cq9LIedwNoa1D4lHPN6m39TxqaLJ/s1600/The+Dry+Valleys+antarctica.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfifj6xTvJ6u4vcEVR-7dfSVqNZ3thAcKOBycKzIPMFgbmrHsYfpAN58Hjh4qRRlKpeHD3JsWH9A72U5hBJtw91T0uSK44VBV1jiS3qDmEc3qpeKl-cq9LIedwNoa1D4lHPN6m39TxqaLJ/s400/The+Dry+Valleys+antarctica.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454073099480240274" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 259px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>The Dry Valleys are from north to south Victoria, Wright and Taylor, and they are unusual in as much as no rain has fallen there for at least two million years. They have no ice or snow either because the air is too dry for any to exist (ice-free spaces in the Antarctic are called oases). They are enormous, desolate places covering around 3000 sq. km (1170 sq. mi.) and were first happened upon by Robert Scott in December 1903. He wrote '...we have seen no living thing, not even a moss or a lichen...it certainly is the valley of the dead; even the great glacier that once pushed through it has withered away'.</div><div><br /></div><div>Despite their appearance, however, the valleys support some of the most unusual life-forms on the planet. In 1978 American biologists discovered algae, fungi and bacteria growing inside the rocks of the Dry Valleys. These endolithic life-forms grow in air pockets within porous rocks and feed off light, carbon dioxide and moisture that penetrate the rock. The bizarre sculptured rock forms that abound accentuate the otherworldliness of the landscape, and these are called ventifacts, shaped by the ever-present wind that buffs the windward sides to a highly polished gleam. (Scientists believe that the Dry Valleys are the nearest earthly equivalent to the landscape of Mars, and NASA did much research there before launching the Viking mission to Mars.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Hannah Point (Livingston Island) </b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJXQir5sK1jmFXM1lPD6lzEpZkirirTeOJ0tSiOAjBzHY_-k-F0XqjPbY2Dc6XhxZXqFw4PB6TuO2TovQFeTNDdC5krVCM5TQ4Z4l97WAjBzfPzsasl32Q8oJGpteSLlHX9HOYAy7I0CQ8/s1600/Hannah+Point+(Livingston+Island)+antarctica.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJXQir5sK1jmFXM1lPD6lzEpZkirirTeOJ0tSiOAjBzHY_-k-F0XqjPbY2Dc6XhxZXqFw4PB6TuO2TovQFeTNDdC5krVCM5TQ4Z4l97WAjBzfPzsasl32Q8oJGpteSLlHX9HOYAy7I0CQ8/s400/Hannah+Point+(Livingston+Island)+antarctica.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454073302870695826" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 200px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>One of the best wildlife sites in the Antarctic, provides an opportunity to see chinstrap, gentoo, and macaroni penguins; giant petrels, blue-eyed shags, skuas, Wilson’s storm petrels: and possibly the southern elephant seal and Antarctic fur seal.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Hope Bay</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6AdR_r_ncc6a09nq41jlFBZOlloJaeQmtUH9JRyamoVFlUXscQxmdB0E4cXyg4-FdIYok7FIK4VuYvB5_XJiDnUps-0FEDmjaNyRDixMMLSzLdeKhy7d4NCQzpfbdUbg0I60grhnj0qyx/s1600/Hope+Bay+antarctica.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6AdR_r_ncc6a09nq41jlFBZOlloJaeQmtUH9JRyamoVFlUXscQxmdB0E4cXyg4-FdIYok7FIK4VuYvB5_XJiDnUps-0FEDmjaNyRDixMMLSzLdeKhy7d4NCQzpfbdUbg0I60grhnj0qyx/s400/Hope+Bay+antarctica.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454073675105585010" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>Hope Bay lies in the Antarctic Sound often called “Iceberg Alley” providing excellent opportunities to see extraordinary icebergs. View the remains of an expedition hut from a Swedish expedition that wintered here in 1903. The Argentine Esperanza Research Station, Adelie penguins and snowy sheathbills are other highlights.</div><div><br /></div><div>King George Island is the largest of the South Shetland Islands. Russia, China, Korea, Poland, Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina have all built research stations here. You may have an opportunity to visit one of these stations, where researchers welcome you with descriptions of their projects and a firsthand look at life in the Antarctic.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>King George Island</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4gO6sGwlKeCB6YJkEL8cJLyCVh7sj2FYTviEIIP1JhDaFkKjpBWTy_sG9QSiLItORUPKaoZcViWgCVotv7QEHZbjwesWLhOrkVIumEiRVNJo_q56317IiS-cBhoBbHuoZ0qnP-cYCXmvI/s1600/King+George+Island+antarctica.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4gO6sGwlKeCB6YJkEL8cJLyCVh7sj2FYTviEIIP1JhDaFkKjpBWTy_sG9QSiLItORUPKaoZcViWgCVotv7QEHZbjwesWLhOrkVIumEiRVNJo_q56317IiS-cBhoBbHuoZ0qnP-cYCXmvI/s400/King+George+Island+antarctica.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454074693977195378" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 237px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>There are numerous international research stations on this island including the Polish Arctowski Station and the Brazilian Ferraz Station Admiralty Bay. On the western side there are Russian, Chilean, Chinese, Korean, and Uruguayan stations. A visit to one or more stations is often possible with an opportunity to meet the researchers.</div><div><br /></div><div>Grab your cameras and make for the observation decks as our Captain deftly nudges aside ice floes with the bow of the ship as you transit Lemaire Channel,</div><div><br /></div><div><b>The Lemaire Channel</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPIHKFCMnu2IkGhdtlZek4VLBiG3naBBNDjHWvgl1AfnpNwYJFckNMKQTHPT9toucehxdxI6ZGHD0Hg22JRqKnF6xrO-E7DAtC_I7nisBHzfXISOpdTfllTQM7Xi-SGpj7YdKQ3nUjieAg/s1600/The+Lemaire+Channel+antarctica.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPIHKFCMnu2IkGhdtlZek4VLBiG3naBBNDjHWvgl1AfnpNwYJFckNMKQTHPT9toucehxdxI6ZGHD0Hg22JRqKnF6xrO-E7DAtC_I7nisBHzfXISOpdTfllTQM7Xi-SGpj7YdKQ3nUjieAg/s400/The+Lemaire+Channel+antarctica.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454075007158388834" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 262px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>The Lemaire Channel is a spectacular sight with enormous sheer cliffs falling straight into the sea. Affectionately known as "Kodak Gap," this narrow waterway flows between the 3,000-foot peaks of Booth Island and the peninsula. It's only once you're well within it that a way through is visible. Orcas and humpback whales often accompany ships as they make their way through some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth. Unfortunately, ice can sometimes obscure the path and ships need to retreat and sail around Booth Island. At the northern end of Lemaire Channel are a pair of tall, rounded and often snow-capped peaks known as Una's Tits that are also popular with holiday snappers. Belgian explorer De Gerlache during his 1898 expedition aboard Belgica first navigated the channel, and, curiously, named it after the Belgian explorer Charles Lemaire, who explored parts of the Congo. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Antarctica Sightseeing flights</b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibEJEBF16Nd8hN3hpbu6VR1cIzzvZSPdKlCucp0GDK4MQ7gTlbNdvpaiX-1dODevG34pnRFgt3zTcWZGOBG5a6EagoEyYoFC4ART5oP4VTTDbp5xjp3dkZ_07v_SWR-5GSoqnvVeg8N39y/s1600/Antarctica+Sightseeing+flights+antarctica.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibEJEBF16Nd8hN3hpbu6VR1cIzzvZSPdKlCucp0GDK4MQ7gTlbNdvpaiX-1dODevG34pnRFgt3zTcWZGOBG5a6EagoEyYoFC4ART5oP4VTTDbp5xjp3dkZ_07v_SWR-5GSoqnvVeg8N39y/s400/Antarctica+Sightseeing+flights+antarctica.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454075179371004370" style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 306px; " /></a></span></b></div><div>A few times a year it is possible to do sightseeing flights over Antarctica. The charter flights depart from Australia, taking 12 hrs or so and spending 3-4 hrs flying low over the ice fields of Antarctica. The flight doesn't land but this is as close as you can get to Antarctica without taking an expensive cruise! There are different price levels of seating.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Getting In</b></div><div><div><b>By plane</b></div><div>Aircraft and pilots need to be capable of landing on ice, snow, or gravel runways, as there are no paved runways. Landings are generally restricted to the daylight season (Summer months from October to March). Winter landings have been performed at Williams Field but low temperatures mean that aircraft cannot stay on the ice longer than an hour or so as their skis may freeze to the ice runway. Travel is normally by military aircraft, as part of the cargo. Passengers should anticipate carrying all their own luggage and may need to assist with freight as well.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Major landing fields include:</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Williams Field - Serves McMurdo Station and Scott Base.</div><div>Pegasus Blue-Ice Runway - Serves McMurdo Station and Scott Base.</div><div>Annual Sea-Ice Runway - Serves McMurdo Station and Scott Base.</div><div>Commercial overflights to Antarctica are limited - a handful of operators offer flights from Sydney, Melbourne, and Punta Arenas. These flights typically visit Antarctica and spend several hours flying over the ice. Passengers in most seating classes rotate their position in the row halfway into the flight, to give everyone a window or one-over-from-window seat for half of the time. Rates range from $5199 for first class, to $1399 for partially-obstructed-view economy class, or $899 for non-rotating center-section seats with window access depending on the courtesy of better-seated travelers. Keep in mind that these flights involve substantial risk: a successful search-and-rescue mission would be all but impossible in the event of a crash, which is what happened to one Air New Zealand flight in 1979. Due to a combination of low flying altitude and a navigational error, they hit Mount Erebus on Ross Island and all 257 people aboard were killed.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>By cruise ship</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Boat is the most common method of visiting the Antarctic. In the Antarctic summer, several companies offer excursions on ice strengthened vessels to Antarctica. Ice strengthened (not quite as tough as icebreakers) boats are preferred since icebreakers are round on the bottom -- a configuration that amplifies the already massive wave action in the Drake passage. The ships typically offer a couple of excursions to the continent (usually the Antarctic peninsula) or Antarctic islands (e.g., Deception Island, Aitcho Island) each day over the course of a week. The views are phenomenal, the penguins are friendly (well, some of them are), and the experience is one that is unparalleled!</div></div><div><div>When traveling by boat, be aware that smaller ships (typically carrying 50-100 passengers) can go where the big ships can't, getting you up closer to Antarctica's nature and wildlife. Larger vessels (carrying as many as 1200 people) are less prone to rough seas but have more limited landing options. Many vessels include naturalist guided hikes, zodiac excursions and sea kayaking right from the ship, perfect for active, casual travelers.</div><div>You'll need warm clothing: boots, hoods, glove, water repellent pants, parka and warm underwear. Most of these items can be bought or hired in Ushuaia, but sometimes - in the high season - it is not always easy to get the right sizes. So bring whatever you can from your own stock.</div><div><br /></div><div>It must also be remembered that cruise operators typically only allow 100 people on land at any one time in order to comply with IAATO agreements. Consequently if you are in a boat with more than 200 people the chances are you will only spend a couple of hours at most per day off ship. Generally the smaller ships will try to ensure 2 different locations per day around Antarctica, although this is of course dependent on the weather and you may expect a 60% success rate on landing people for any given visit.</div><div>Companies offering cruises to Antarctica include:</div><div><br /></div><div>Abercrombie & Kent, USA. Full member of International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) with 20 years of Antarctica operating experience, providing enrichment and educational programs.</div><div><br /></div><div>Adventure Life. Members of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), their small-ship Antarctica expeditions have been featured in ForbesLife and the New York Times.</div><div><br /></div><div>AdventureSmith Antarctica Cruises. Award winning small ship cruise specialists, they work only with ships carrying 100 passengers or less.</div><div>Bark Europa. A square rigged sailing ship offering 22 day trips to Antarctica and other Sub </div><div><br /></div><div>Antarctic destinations like South Georgia and Tristan da Cunha.</div><div><br /></div><div>Cheesemans Ecology Safaris. Offers a trip nearly every year that includes three days in the Falklands, a week on South Georgia, and eight days on the Antarctic Peninsula. Their trips are expensive but are some of the best for maximizing onshore time. They have also done Ross Sea trips in past years.</div><div><br /></div><div>Gap Adventures. Operates trips on their ship: the 'M/S Expedition' The maximum number of passengers is 120 and the there are by lectures by staff and naturalists on board.</div><div><br /></div><div>Haka Expeditions.Cruises and Air Cruises to Antarctica and South Georgia.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.Members of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), their small expedition ships have the highest ice class ranking for cruise ships, and each vessel offers 4-5 cruises to Antarctica between December and March every year, including </div><div><br /></div><div>Antarctic peninsula, South Shetland Islands, Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and the Weddell Sea.</div><div><br /></div><div>Journeys International. Provides small ship exploration cruises to the Falkland Islands, South </div><div>Georgia, South Shetlands, the Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctic Circle and the Weddell and Ross Seas.</div><div><br /></div><div>Lindblad Expeditions. Lindblad pioneered travel to Antarctica in 1966 and offers multiple trips to the Antarctic Peninsula, and longer trips which also include the Falklands and South Georgia aboard the new 148-guest National Geographic Explorer.</div><div><br /></div><div>Quark Expeditions. Offers everything from month-long semi-circumnavigation trips to week-long explorations of the Antarctic peninsula, on former Russian ice-breakers and expedition ships.</div><div><br /></div><div>Rockjumper Birding tours, operates out of South Africa and is aimed at those interested in birding.</div><div><br /></div><div>Geographic Expeditions. GeoEx specializes in small group adventure travel. Tours offer a variety of destinations such as Ross Sea, South Georgia Islands an penguin rookeries.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Most cruise ships depart from the following ports:</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Ushuaia in Argentina.</div><div>Punta Arenas in Chile.</div><div>Bluff in New Zealand.</div><div>Hobart in Australia.</div></div><div><div><br /></div><div><b>By sailboat</b></div><div><div>About a dozen charter sailboats, many of them members of IAATO, offer three to six week voyages to the Antarctic Peninsula from South America. Most offer "expedition style" trips where guests are invited to help out, although usually no prior sailing experience is required. Yachts take individuals on a "by the bunk" basis and also support private expeditions such as scientific research, mountaineering, kayaking, and film-making. Compared to the more popular cruise ships, a small yacht can be more work and significantly less comfortable, but typically allows more freedom and flexibility. For the right people this can be a far more rewarding experience.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ocean Expeditions , Sailing yacht ‘Australis’ offers an intimate experience of Antarctica.</div><div>Expedition Sail , Sailing yacht ‘SEAL’ is a purpose-built expedition sailboat offering private expeditions, support for research, filming, or climbing projects, and also offers "by the bunk" trips for individuals.</div><div><br /></div><div>Spirit of Sydney, Australians, Darrel and Cath, own and operate Spirit of Sydney, an expedition support yacht perfectly suited to meet and exceed the requirements of Film Crews, Mountaineers, Skiers and Snowboarders, Sea Kayakers, Dry suit Divers, Scientists, Sailors of all experience levels, Whale Watchers and Adventurers of all kinds. They typically carry kayaks on board, and offer both private charters and group trips for individuals.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Antarctic Stations</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Coastal stations include</div><div>McMurdo (77 51 S, 166 40 E) (USA)</div><div>Palmer (64 42 S, 64 00 W) (USA)</div><div>Arctowski (Poland)</div><div>St. Kliment Ohridski, (Livingston Island) (62 38 29 S, 60 21 53 W) (Bulgaria)</div><div>Port Lockroy (UK)</div><div>Baia Terranova (I)</div><div>Mawson (67 36 S, 62 52 E) (Australia)</div><div>Davis (68 35 S, 77 58 E) (Australia)</div><div>Casey (66 17 S, 110 32 E) (Australia)</div><div>Aboa (73°03'S, 13°25'W) (Finland)</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Get around</b></div><div><div>Ponies, sledges and dogs, skis, tractors, snow cats (and similar tracked vehicles) and aircraft including helicopters and ski planes have all been used to get around Antarctica. Cruise ships use zodiac boats to ferry tourists from ship to shore in small groups. Bring your own fuel and food, or arrange supplies in advance. You cannot purchase fuel or food on the continent. Cruise ships come fully prepared with landing transport, food, etc. Some (but not all) even provide cold-</div><div>weather clothing.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>By Tour</b></div><div>Big Five Tours - Offers customized tours to Antarctica.</div><div>Quark Expeditions - Antarctica expeditions</div><div>Fs Expeditions - Grand Antarctica Expeditions</div></div>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-89464725229076098242010-03-28T05:15:00.000-07:002010-03-28T06:05:00.569-07:00Turks and Caicos "A mostly undiscovered tourist destination."<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9YC8huZxpFLyjhTa7q5nN9vxPeDVqnxAcsq7FPvs2tvY00YGdC5_5hpr9HoC_jagIru1UXdnQWq5_7ZsayscqZsFkHT_XwoLqc8pe6ST_tJLh9XgqyCkwjYqq9dHDydU54QrEUuJQe5Z/s1600/turks-and-caicos-providenciales-039.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9YC8huZxpFLyjhTa7q5nN9vxPeDVqnxAcsq7FPvs2tvY00YGdC5_5hpr9HoC_jagIru1UXdnQWq5_7ZsayscqZsFkHT_XwoLqc8pe6ST_tJLh9XgqyCkwjYqq9dHDydU54QrEUuJQe5Z/s400/turks-and-caicos-providenciales-039.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453667063249657234" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><p class="fontmain" align="left">The beautiful Turks and Caicos Islands are situated 575 miles southeast of Miami and 39 miles south east of Mayaguana in the Bahamas. Covering 193 square miles of the Atlantic ocean, Turks and Caicos Islands has one of the longest coral reefs in the world, making it a premier diving destination. </p> <p class="fontmain">One of the most valuable possessions of the islands are the white sandy beaches, which in total cover 230 miles and are complimented with crystal clear waters. The islands are relatively flat but depending on the island, the terrain can vary from sand dunes to lush green vegetation. There are eight major islands: Salt Cay, Grand Turk, South Caicos, East Caicos, Middle Caicos, North Caicos, Providenciales and West Caicos. The people on the islands are known for their friendliness. East Caicos and West Caicos are uninhabited. </p> <p class="fontmain">The Tourism industry gives Turks and Caicos its main revenue. In addition to this the islands are also a major offshore financial center. There is a small traditional fishing industry that continues throughout Turks and Caicos. On the islands of Providenciales and Grand Turk you will find International style hotel accommodations, each one has its own unique set up and surroundings. Native dishes are served along with international cuisine, you will find this at most of the restaurants. More casual and serene accommodations can be found on the other islands and smaller cays.<br /></p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontmain">Cockburn Town</p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontmain"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibfQQW8XAckLZ7Av2NOHshuZPv_Vgp85wi3kWDbdUERheJE7xh8JXRroTVSHsLD5JJ04FGulLHQ6V5Nb9xwhR7hAJGxZMtafOTzGDZ-fqa4VnZwC3IvVXDI_tdoyG9l8_h1T_X8zvdqoMF/s1600/Cockburn+Town.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 273px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibfQQW8XAckLZ7Av2NOHshuZPv_Vgp85wi3kWDbdUERheJE7xh8JXRroTVSHsLD5JJ04FGulLHQ6V5Nb9xwhR7hAJGxZMtafOTzGDZ-fqa4VnZwC3IvVXDI_tdoyG9l8_h1T_X8zvdqoMF/s400/Cockburn+Town.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453658127207873074" border="0" /></a></p><p class="fontmain">Cockburn Town is the administrative capital and the historic and cultural center of the islands. It is strongly reputed to be the landfall island of Columbus during his discovery of the New World in 1442. The town itself is well suited for a walking tour. Duke and Font Streets are lined with historic 18th and 19th century landmarks that reflect the Bermudan style architecture of the salt era. Two of these buildings are now popular inns, another in the governor's residence, other government offices, the public library, churches and private residence and fraternities. At the Turks an Caicos National Museum you will find a central exhibit that tells the story of the Molasses Reef Wreck, the oldest European shipwreck discovered in the Western Hemisphere (dated around 1505). It also discloses the rich cultural and natural diversity of the islands. Other historic sites include the Lighthouse, Fire hill and the Hawks Nest Anchorage.</p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontmain">Grand Turk</p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontmain"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil3hQ3bICm_9nWNqZEcyL2rHB8YwPgwh1lyZt7jUlPGuaB_KQuIoG76FdOKqGCzfN0qYpllxvsjrWj5eEKPARTlaZV-Yjlhxug_-CjAbTPvafHBgwXn4dJnYimINlhGmbc21CMlyIgRH8w/s1600/Grand+Turk.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 334px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil3hQ3bICm_9nWNqZEcyL2rHB8YwPgwh1lyZt7jUlPGuaB_KQuIoG76FdOKqGCzfN0qYpllxvsjrWj5eEKPARTlaZV-Yjlhxug_-CjAbTPvafHBgwXn4dJnYimINlhGmbc21CMlyIgRH8w/s400/Grand+Turk.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453659299964951138" border="0" /></a></p><p class="fontmain">Grand Turk is the capital of Turks and Caicos and the financial center of the islands. It has the second largest population of around 3,720 people. Grand Turk is one of the main historical points of Turks and Caicos. You will find many old buildings and ruins along with The Turks and Caicos National Museum. Grand Turk's main attraction is diving, with many dive operators and schools it can cater for novice snorkels to experienced divers. The major income for the island is dive orientated tourism. There is an outstanding protected coral reef which has clear and calm waters. There are 6 major accommodations.<br /></p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontmain">Salt Cay</p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontmain"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiispXJ9wIfGtJAYTeEL9X-atv9KLuiMZwud8oz5f-91oLwOPGBG5zEDBlQQnZphh5bS65M3XLLwiO1h1jH6748DBnkVWTXiXA6vUIwGbMGIRQgSL8zDCGUSa5dAr1MlmIHP8ixdxSDpRlw/s1600/salt+cay.png"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 259px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiispXJ9wIfGtJAYTeEL9X-atv9KLuiMZwud8oz5f-91oLwOPGBG5zEDBlQQnZphh5bS65M3XLLwiO1h1jH6748DBnkVWTXiXA6vUIwGbMGIRQgSL8zDCGUSa5dAr1MlmIHP8ixdxSDpRlw/s400/salt+cay.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453661838535992530" border="0" /></a></p><p class="fontmain">I<span style="font-size:85%;"><a name="Salt Cay "></a></span><span style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a name="Salt Cay "></a></span>t has the air of a frozen moment, a place where time stands still. Salt Cay was the center of the Bermudan salt industry, the mainstay of the Turks and Caicos economy from the late 1600's until the early 1960's. When the salt industry stopped, the tools fell where they were being used. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Salt cay is a time capsule from the days "when Salt was king." She is a community of 200 hundred souls, surviving on an arid islands with one unarmed policeman and a strong sense of family and order. The island is largely divided into squares controlled by windmills that no longer turn and salinas holding slowly evaporating seawater. </p><p class="fontarial" align="left">Twelve cars wander her roads, soft beaches border much of her shore line, herons feed in the salinas and others in the marsh land to the south. The distinctively Bermudan style homes, all with dusty but neatly swept dirt yards, set a tone, and possess an undeniable style. The White House, owned by descendants of Bermudan salt rakers, is a landmark and contains the original antique furniture.<br /></p><p class="fontarial" align="left">Salt Cay also hosts relics of the whaling industry that once existed. The whaling station at Taylor's Hill has long been lying in ruins, visitors to this land in the winter stare in amazement at the gigantic Humpback Whales. The residents are very friendly and are always ready with a bit of conversation. This is old Turks and Caicos, a direct line to a simpler and slower time.</p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontarial" align="left"><br /></p> <p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontarial" align="left">South Caicos<br /></p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontarial" align="left"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrEb2kCxSGYtlDI7nBAbJ4rbLeTMMZPP3AMrm6eVxXy5HDbYiClXjt3m7S8GUnl0ypGpho7eaWnMtORZAF9t7O1H7JuWqunIFMt9KS3FnsKeET11JlrGdj5vEN-RC1v8X2ZbuBIo4ywzSD/s1600/South+Caicos.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 261px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrEb2kCxSGYtlDI7nBAbJ4rbLeTMMZPP3AMrm6eVxXy5HDbYiClXjt3m7S8GUnl0ypGpho7eaWnMtORZAF9t7O1H7JuWqunIFMt9KS3FnsKeET11JlrGdj5vEN-RC1v8X2ZbuBIo4ywzSD/s400/South+Caicos.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453660822056297426" border="0" /></a></p><p class="fontarial" align="left">South Caicos is the fishing capital of the islands, and boasts the best natural harbour and several fishing plants, processing most of the nation's seafood harvest of lobster, conch and fish for export and local consumption. Other features of the island include the 18th century Commissioner's House, old salt works, and the Boiling Hole which fed the salt pans that once made South Caicos the islands' largest producer of salt.</p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontarial" align="left">East Caicos</p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontarial" align="left"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgupytL4mnO1ysYnUVpqNbHWfVxdSbOUscDshyphenhyphensOHOMk1YQqflzo20QfzaJMfSm46dTv6a4qkvKcHmlO9OH7MzbBWmfMdx01HXoDecN8GuzkU1B7_sU1ehKrwpqql4kGWHAjKHYMAoJ4sb8/s1600/East+Caicos.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgupytL4mnO1ysYnUVpqNbHWfVxdSbOUscDshyphenhyphensOHOMk1YQqflzo20QfzaJMfSm46dTv6a4qkvKcHmlO9OH7MzbBWmfMdx01HXoDecN8GuzkU1B7_sU1ehKrwpqql4kGWHAjKHYMAoJ4sb8/s400/East+Caicos.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453662251313275106" border="0" /></a></p><p class="fontarial" align="left">East Caicos is an uninhabited island but is large in size being 18 square miles. A majority of the island is inundated by swamps and mangroves, you can find the highest point of the islands here. There is a splendid 17 mile beach on the north coast of the island, this is usually only used by Sea Turtles to lay their eggs because of the large mosquito population. Near Jacksonville in the north west of the island there are a series of caves that used to be used for mining bat guano, and petroglyphs shows early evidence of settlers on the island.</p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontarial" align="left"><span class="fontarial">Middle Caicos</span></p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontarial" align="left"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBI1Orj_dZUqJtZbYmXnIhL8LfgWTxIkBc13k2G0Ox8iYFVMTCXFCgqQiEkx7hs7mQ4eVEzicQkp9Qah-NU9hgt9BIhx13s4JlSnZo6HHuNG7pjPJZCNI9y9Pc3X7zPA0Zj5RUKpxZ9jlL/s1600/Middle+Caicos.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBI1Orj_dZUqJtZbYmXnIhL8LfgWTxIkBc13k2G0Ox8iYFVMTCXFCgqQiEkx7hs7mQ4eVEzicQkp9Qah-NU9hgt9BIhx13s4JlSnZo6HHuNG7pjPJZCNI9y9Pc3X7zPA0Zj5RUKpxZ9jlL/s400/Middle+Caicos.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453662617336741170" border="0" /></a></p><p class="fontarial" align="left"><span class="fontarial"> Being the largest of the islands Middle Caicos is 48 square miles of natural beauty. There are 3 settlements on the island, Conch Bar, Bambarra and L</span><span class="fontarial">orimers and there is a population of 275. </span><span class="fontarial">The coastline around Middle Caicos is more dramatic than that of the other islands, to the north there are Limestone cliffs with long sandy beaches. The south is dominated by swampland and tidal flats which almost covers half the island. Rain is plentiful on Middle Caicos, which is why the island is so green and ideal for</span> agriculture. Middle Caicos is home to the largest caves in all Turks and Caicos at Conch Bar. There are 2 small but comfortable accommodations. <span class="fontarial"><br /></span></p><p class="fontarial" align="left"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mudjin Harbour</span></p><p class="fontarial" align="left"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQO-lGOXpLz3ZiVDv8DYeQE95xwUHbMl0B7xWCKTp9bMdjtSi2nfUg8gy0VUxkb0arF_27AH29ksP5P5sZUgClp-qS5_G2yVolxXUmjy6omITcX0EgDx_wO2FgfqAHXFtDgJo56rMrZHm0/s1600/Mudjin+Harbour.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQO-lGOXpLz3ZiVDv8DYeQE95xwUHbMl0B7xWCKTp9bMdjtSi2nfUg8gy0VUxkb0arF_27AH29ksP5P5sZUgClp-qS5_G2yVolxXUmjy6omITcX0EgDx_wO2FgfqAHXFtDgJo56rMrZHm0/s400/Mudjin+Harbour.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453661302583560130" border="0" /></a></p><p class="fontarial" align="left">Mudjin Harbour, a half-moon cave and a picturesque beach that juts out from the land to link up with an offshore Cay is a most dramatic feature. The huge limestone caves feature stalactites, stalagmites, bats, owls and salt lakes that link up with the sea, and are considered to be one of the most extensive cave systems in the region. There also the remains of huge Lucayan Indian settlements. One site excavated near Armstrong Pond in 1978 contains a Lucayan ball court, unknown elsewhere in the Lucayan islands. Artifacts recovered from the caves suggest that they were used either as shelter or sacred places. Middle Caicos also contains ruins of Loyalist plantations. A Frigate Bird colony resides on a cay Just offshore. A large blue hole just offshore in shallow water features an abundant variety of marine life. The island's Northwest Point is a combination of beautiful inlets, marshes, mangroves and in land ponds which serve as a haven for birdlife.</p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontarial" align="left">North Caicos</p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontarial" align="left"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMYBNVC4kRYZAls__vIgwTp38c3v_S5smRPb8FgiHp3gCxB0xIMLlbviTSlJtZAFx62R4yAXzoH_fj5rPCqiPB5yH0iWSXNny6HKsnIN8E90XwSolXIm1R3Fnps6lQp6wX8V8olZwm9Rxj/s1600/North+Caicos.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMYBNVC4kRYZAls__vIgwTp38c3v_S5smRPb8FgiHp3gCxB0xIMLlbviTSlJtZAFx62R4yAXzoH_fj5rPCqiPB5yH0iWSXNny6HKsnIN8E90XwSolXIm1R3Fnps6lQp6wX8V8olZwm9Rxj/s400/North+Caicos.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453663134181915570" border="0" /></a></p><p class="fontarial" align="left">North Caicos is the lushest of all the islands because of the abundant rainfall. The population of around 1305, mostly farmers live in the settlements of Bottle Creek Village, Whitby, Kew and Sandy Point. Bottle Creek Village boarders a lagoon on the northeast of the island, and is protected from the ocean by a long ribbon of sand. Like Middle and East Caicos, the southern part of the island is dominated by swampland and tidal flats. North Caicos boasts the largest flock of Pink Flamingo in the islands. There is a Crab Farm on Greenich Creek which grow Caribbean King Crab from eggs to adults. You can visit the farm by taking a raft. </p> <p align="left"><span class="fontarial">A tour of the Crab Farm offers a lesson in a Crab mariculture, marine ecology and an excellent eco-tour. There are Loyalist plantation ruins, the grandest of which is Wades green. Lucayan artifacts were found in the caves near Sandy Point. Cottage Pond at Sandy Point is a large pool of tropical vegetation. There are flocks of Flamingo at Flamingo Pond and mud Hole Pond. You will find ospreys and their nesting sites on the adjacent Three Mary Cays, and a wide variety of other birds on the islands extensive nature reserves and sanctuaries. </span>Iguanas<span class="fontarial"> on the nearby East Bays Cays are an outstanding example of the natural diversity of this green island. </span> </p><span style="font-weight: bold;color:#000000;" >West Caicos<br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxpMPCblZEImXuKunCobML-o3PMN8RY60Piko6BPIUqNjRfGMx0y60JJmLmw8RRR0xOmCI-zX5NMHGiardTZf8mMao0S9H4002DJU9mTFcHv-9q1QOc0LJlsM0Oe_HjP5Ace_GLw90pC5G/s1600/West+Caicos.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxpMPCblZEImXuKunCobML-o3PMN8RY60Piko6BPIUqNjRfGMx0y60JJmLmw8RRR0xOmCI-zX5NMHGiardTZf8mMao0S9H4002DJU9mTFcHv-9q1QOc0LJlsM0Oe_HjP5Ace_GLw90pC5G/s400/West+Caicos.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453663524463926930" border="0" /></a><br /><p class="fontarial"><span style="color:#000000;">Said to have the most beautiful diving spots in Turks and Caicos, West Caicos is a 9 square mile island that is uninhabited. West Caicos is a favourite for Picnics and Dive Operators with sandy coves and beautiful waters. There are no accommodations on West Caicos but the island is visited frequently.</span> </p> <p class="fontarial" align="left"><span style="color:#000000;">The ruins of Yankee Town, crested by an osprey's nest, its sisal press, railroad and steam engine are evidence of the small civilization that once existed on West Caicos. Lake Catherine is a nature reserve that is home to a variety of bird life. A number of other islands and cays remain in their natural state, without human influence, and serve as protected natural habitats for sea birds, </span>Iguanas<span style="color:#000000;">, Turtles and other wildlife.<br /></span></p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontarial" align="left">Providenciales</p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontarial" align="left"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JP8aoUp68UZsXkjgDiOJE2fEQKiGuRrBMKZuoA-V6v4SBySuMNEhQhGzGW_r-7sl8WkCwHLGwfCyYuWxZvwKaaM1Lb0g-HDg9uWxocnW92rN_wEg_cWACmkSOfqpcW0qsqCjnl-BK_qt/s1600/Providenciales+Turks+and+Caicos.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JP8aoUp68UZsXkjgDiOJE2fEQKiGuRrBMKZuoA-V6v4SBySuMNEhQhGzGW_r-7sl8WkCwHLGwfCyYuWxZvwKaaM1Lb0g-HDg9uWxocnW92rN_wEg_cWACmkSOfqpcW0qsqCjnl-BK_qt/s400/Providenciales+Turks+and+Caicos.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453669592023289730" border="0" /></a></p><p class="fontarial" align="left">Providenciales, or more commonly known as "Provo", covers an area of 38 miles and is the most developed island in Turks and Caicos. Found on the west side of the islands Provo can offer all modern conveniences, including superb hotels, a casino and a Golf Club. Although Provo is the most mature of the islands, it is still a destination for those who want to escape their busy schedules and relax. There is a population of over 6,000, and Provo has the largest non-native population made up of Haitians, Dominicans, French, Canadians, Germans and Americans. The growing population is mainly due to the completion of the airport in 1984, which is capable of dealing with large planes.<br /></p><p class="fontarial" align="left">To the north of the island, near Sapodilla Bay, you will find the most beautiful beaches, and also a long coral reef which is rich in aquatic life. Towards the south of the island you will find Chalk Sound, a large lake with striking turquoise water and an array of small cays. The island's commercial port, South Dock, is found east of Sapodilla Bay and has the capability to deal with containerized goods. </p><p class="fontarial"> The two main and oldest settlements on the island are Bight and Blue Hills, and are built around fresh water supplies. Both locations give a real feeling of Caribbean villages. If you wish to do some shopping, Provo can offer a good range of boutiques at Turtle Cove. Down Town you will find the likes of retail shops, business offices and travel agents.<br /></p><p style="font-weight: bold;" class="fontarial">Getting In</p><h3>Air</h3> <p>There are three airports handling international traffic to Grand Turk and Provo, but most international flights arrive at Provo. The Provo airport has a tourist info booth in arrivals, a restaurant and not much else. Other islands have local airstrips.</p><p><strong>Grand Turk International Airport </strong>(GDT; <span class="tel"></span>946-2233)</p><p><strong>Providenciales International Airport </strong>(PLS; <span class="tel"></span>941-5670)</p><p><strong>South Caicos International Airport </strong>(XSC; <span class="tel"></span>946-4255)</p><p>There are limited flights to elsewhere within the Caribbean from Turks and Caicos; those planning on island-hopping may find themselves backtracking to Florida before delving deeper into the region. The following airlines fly into Turks and Caicos:</p><p><strong>American Airlines </strong>(<span class="tel"></span>1-800-433-7300; <a rel="nofollow external" href="http://www.aa.com/">www.aa.com</a>) <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=361916">Miami</a>, <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=362079">New York</a></p><p><strong>Bahamas Air </strong>(<span class="tel"></span>941-3136; <a rel="nofollow external" href="http://www.bahamasair.com/">www.bahamasair.com</a>) <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=358174">Nassau</a></p><p><strong>British Airways </strong>(<span class="tel"></span>1-800-247-9297; <a rel="nofollow external" href="http://www.ba.com/">www.ba.com</a>) London</p><p><strong>Delta Airlines </strong>(<span class="tel"></span>1-800-221-1212; <a rel="nofollow external" href="http://www.delta.com/">www.delta.com</a>) <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=362193">Atlanta</a></p><p><strong>Spirit Air </strong>(<a rel="nofollow external" href="http://www.spiritair.com/">www.spiritair.com</a>) <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=361915">Fort Lauderdale</a></p><p><strong>US Airways </strong>(<span class="tel"></span>1-800-428-4322; <a rel="nofollow external" href="http://www.usairways.com/">www.usairways.com</a>) <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=362212">Charlotte</a></p><h3><br /></h3><h3>Getting Around</h3><h3>Boat<br /> </h3><p><strong>TCI Ferry </strong>Service (946-5406) is a new ferry operation taking passengers from the Leeward Marina on Providenciales to North Caicos (US$25, $40 round-trip same day), eliminating the need for the expensive and inconvenient flight. There are four departures each way daily.</p><p>A ferry runs biweekly trips from Grand Turk to Salt Cay (US$12, round-trip). Contact <strong>Salt Cay Charters </strong>(<span class="tel"></span>231-6663; <a href="mailto:piratequeen3@hotmail.com">piratequeen3@hotmail.com</a>). Whale-watching boat trips with this company cost US$75.</p> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span> <h3><a name="167580"></a>Car & motorcycle</h3> <h4><a name="167580"></a>Car, motorcycle & scooter</h4> <p>Taxis get expensive in the long run so renting a car makes sense if you plan to explore Provo or Grand Turk. The local companies are very good, and may be cheaper than the internationals. Rentals are around $80 per day and the cars are generally in good nick; most rental companies offer free drop-off and pickup. A government tax of $15 is levied on car rentals ($8 on scooter rentals). Mandatory insurance costs $15. A minimum age of 25 years may be required.</p><p>Driving is on the left-hand side. At roundabouts (traffic circles), remember to circle in a clockwise direction, entering to the left, and give way to traffic already on the roundabout.</p><p>Speed limits in the Turks and Caicos are 20mph (around 32km/h) in settlements and 40mph (around 65km/h) on main highways.</p><p>Please refer to island destinations for rental companies.</p> <h4><a name="167582"></a>Fuel</h4> <p>Gas stations are plentiful and usually open from 8am to 7pm. Some close on Sunday. Gasoline costs about US$5.50 per US gallon – luckily most destinations are pretty close. Credit cards are accepted in major settlements. Elsewhere, it’s cash only, please!</p>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-31421101671314640452010-03-22T21:03:00.000-07:002010-03-22T21:45:38.161-07:00Geneva "The Peace Capital and Worldwide Centre for Diplomacy"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2u2njxiWqNh1m_pBM520OkIIsijOJPyXUFkGPAk47ZNaXEBXgZaESS03PR64xMhz7fdMqVB4tNkTNJWo7NWWjvUU8dpHN5E3Tm0ZLtdCjXYowIbB3y6fFroKi9ZYHkd2O665y1qfGTXxl/s1600-h/Geneva.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 262px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2u2njxiWqNh1m_pBM520OkIIsijOJPyXUFkGPAk47ZNaXEBXgZaESS03PR64xMhz7fdMqVB4tNkTNJWo7NWWjvUU8dpHN5E3Tm0ZLtdCjXYowIbB3y6fFroKi9ZYHkd2O665y1qfGTXxl/s400/Geneva.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451685133101955170" border="0" /></a><br /><br />With a pleasant setting, green parks, colourful gardens and lakeside promenades, Geneva is considered one of the healthiest places to live in the world. The city sits astride the River Rhône, where it streams into Lake Geneva, and is set against a dramatic backdrop of mountains. At the lake's south shore the Jet d'Eau shoots water 460ft (140m) into the sky from the end of a pier - the city's landmark attraction and Europe's most powerful fountain.<br /><br />Undoubtedly Switzerland's most cosmopolitan city, Geneva's reputation for religious and political tolerance dates back more than five hundred years. In the 16th century the city spawned the religious teachings of John Calvin, and was where Lenin spent his 'years of recreation'. Little of their Puritanism is left today - stately homes line the banks of the lake, overlooking an armada of luxury yachts. Jewels and designer labels spill out of exclusive boutiques and into chauffer-driven limousines that slide down palatial avenues.<br /><br />As well as a host of museums and fine galleries, Geneva has a lively cultural calendar. Most notable is the celebration of l'Escalade in December, which involves costumed and torch-lit processions through the town, and the consumption of sickly amounts of chocolate and marzipan.<br /><br />Geneva is a gateway to Switzerland's luxury ski resorts, an important banking centre and home to thousands of international delegates and diplomats. Among the many international organisations based in the city are the United Nations and the International Red Cross.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lake Geneva (Lac Léman)</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicr37VVkSCgZo2DsRcsuAZBt2yYoTmMJEf_aSqUAoQruwuLyXhfgFb_NWMK5uVWNaCSPl35F6qijbwmzkOD2qxjNzfKToQD_H-B-DEBnBjsc0EanDHeR2BQd3IfXdhBlil8XSrQ_HZoHNs/s1600-h/Lake+Geneva+%28Lac+L%C3%A9man%29.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicr37VVkSCgZo2DsRcsuAZBt2yYoTmMJEf_aSqUAoQruwuLyXhfgFb_NWMK5uVWNaCSPl35F6qijbwmzkOD2qxjNzfKToQD_H-B-DEBnBjsc0EanDHeR2BQd3IfXdhBlil8XSrQ_HZoHNs/s400/Lake+Geneva+%28Lac+L%C3%A9man%29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451675684522517282" border="0" /></a><br />The largest lake in central Europe that is shared by both Switzerland and France, Lake Geneva (Lac Léman to its French-speaking inhabitants) has for decades drawn visitors to its shores. Attracted by the alpine panorama, quaint wooden chalet villages, vineyard-covered slopes and sailboats skimming across the blue waters, many famous writers, musical composers, actors and poets came to settle and the area has become something of an inspiration to the arts. Situated in the westernmost district of Vaud, the region contains a diversity of attractions and activities, from wine-growing villages and mountain ski resorts, picturesque castles, and magnificent cathedrals, to low-key lakeside resorts, boat cruises, and cosy fireside pots of fondue. Sophisticated shopping and cultural life can be found in the cities of Geneva and Lausanne, with sweeping views across the sparkling lake to the Alps and the distinctive pinnacle of Mont Blanc. Among the vineyards and affluent villas clinging to the slopes lie the lakeside towns of Vevey and Montreux, the pearls of the Swiss Riviera. Scenic winding roads stretch along the shores, and train trips offers outstanding views, while below steamers crisscross the waters of Lake Geneva, offering a variety of ways to experience the splendour of its location.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lausanne</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbEO0wPRiJu7aVocETwVkBCY7KWc-k8byJF2JtgBbfgkVYBGx54TyvvixyRxZyBe0Tc7n7670vyyt_hNLWrm5oqV3ZvpCKVlrJ39rCsszbPJBQGAGQ6acgfBMcRSsMbmNqsampPAlb4DGT/s1600-h/Lausanne.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbEO0wPRiJu7aVocETwVkBCY7KWc-k8byJF2JtgBbfgkVYBGx54TyvvixyRxZyBe0Tc7n7670vyyt_hNLWrm5oqV3ZvpCKVlrJ39rCsszbPJBQGAGQ6acgfBMcRSsMbmNqsampPAlb4DGT/s400/Lausanne.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451676043242916834" border="0" /></a><br />Picturesquely located on the shores of Lake Geneva, the youthful and energetic city of Lausanne is built above the lake on a sequence of tiers connected by a small metro. The upper or Old Town contains the grand Gothic cathedral, Notre-Dame; its turreted towers a well-known symbol of the city. The lower town on the lakeshore was once the small fishing village of Ouchy and is now the prime waterfront area with outdoor dining and cafés, promenades and sporting activities. The gardens around the Quay d'Ouchy are home to the city's foremost attraction, the Olympic Museum, containing a wealth of sporting memories and a collection of unique objects pertaining to the Olympic Games from its beginning until the present. Lausanne relishes its importance as the Olympic World Capital and headquarters of the International Olympic Committee.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Château de Chillon</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1dlG74AGICdxkAKlfyhSahMwOzYnkCeA3Bql9nEZqzVBjoqrCGEIjhhUEU73ynmNK1Mr-X4T7upiWP3eC7LLHoH4ndTV-URrLgfqcYZVCE80BADtVILVYBgIdnV3lfY0vszu8jDf42P8/s1600-h/Ch%C3%A2teau+de+Chillon.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1dlG74AGICdxkAKlfyhSahMwOzYnkCeA3Bql9nEZqzVBjoqrCGEIjhhUEU73ynmNK1Mr-X4T7upiWP3eC7LLHoH4ndTV-URrLgfqcYZVCE80BADtVILVYBgIdnV3lfY0vszu8jDf42P8/s400/Ch%C3%A2teau+de+Chillon.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451676359488979954" border="0" /></a><br />One of the best-maintained medieval castles in Europe, the 13th century Château de Chillon is the most visited historical building in Switzerland. With its stunning lakeside location near the chic town of Montreux, jutting out into the water and framed by mountains, it is one of the more frequently photographed castles in Europe. An important fortress in the Middle Ages, it was strategically positioned to control the narrow passage between mountains and lake protecting the major north-south route. It was also the favourite summer residence of the Counts of Savoy. Later it served as a state prison. Visitors can tour the dungeons where the castle's most famous prisoner was chained for four years, the priest François Bonivard, a supporter of the Reformation. The fortress became famous when Lord Byron wrote about Bonivard's fate in an inspired poem entitled Prisoner of Chillon. Besides the dungeons, visitors can wander round the towers and courtyards, discover narrow secret passages, and see the grand knight's halls, frescoed chapel, luxurious bedchambers and rooms containing medieval weapons, furniture and paintings.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jet d'Eau</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrTFW9WESQVEgS2uNWKg3Slg5bhzVs7aZ7c08T4TRNggWB0BxRvBJ16E0D8jeJUJADcAa0vKEhfBlyN4lmI0XomlB0fGVi9hQ5Jo-CXJYAqrZI0x0k6BjgmVlWYrikkTMY3GeCLX6QMIhd/s1600-h/Jet+d%27Eau.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrTFW9WESQVEgS2uNWKg3Slg5bhzVs7aZ7c08T4TRNggWB0BxRvBJ16E0D8jeJUJADcAa0vKEhfBlyN4lmI0XomlB0fGVi9hQ5Jo-CXJYAqrZI0x0k6BjgmVlWYrikkTMY3GeCLX6QMIhd/s400/Jet+d%27Eau.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451676759167496690" border="0" /></a><br />The tallest fountain in the world, the Jet d'Eau is a Geneva attraction that cannot be missed. Projecting 460 feet (140m) into the air at a speed of 124 miles per hour (200km/h) and pumping 132 gallons (500 litres) of water per second, the fountain was initially established to release pressure for hydropower generation on the Rhone River, but was so loved by the populace that in 1891 the city created a permanent fountain. As Paris has the Eiffel Tower and New York has the Empire State Building, Geneva has the Jet d'Eau. For a breathtaking and romantic sight, visit at night, when the fountain is lit up.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU6zwaZ91is2WsOB6vIWyZUVZx9cnALGjOv4hDSZ-5bBry-2D6Fn01yZbffZC9OX_RMvU7vdh_7m5KHby8DBWubIKLXyimazrKENHDnIaMyl5imF1PiB8olw4BRB0GoFfzVHSYp_Ez9zkg/s1600-h/International+Red+Cross+and+Red+Crescent+Museum+geneva.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU6zwaZ91is2WsOB6vIWyZUVZx9cnALGjOv4hDSZ-5bBry-2D6Fn01yZbffZC9OX_RMvU7vdh_7m5KHby8DBWubIKLXyimazrKENHDnIaMyl5imF1PiB8olw4BRB0GoFfzVHSYp_Ez9zkg/s400/International+Red+Cross+and+Red+Crescent+Museum+geneva.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451677040157851314" border="0" /></a><br />One of the most creative and thought provoking museums in Europe, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum brings together sculpture, installation, photography and film to highlight the importance of human rights, the history of conflict in the 20th century and the humanitarian work the Red Cross has done in providing aid to combatants and civilians caught up in both war and natural disasters. Funded entirely by outside donors, the museum is appropriately situated on the hillside opposite the United Nations, within the headquarters of the International Committee of the Red Cross. A significant stopover on a visit to Geneva, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum provides insight into the gross implications of war and the tragedy that surrounds but also the committed work of the volunteers and Red Cross representatives alike. All the exhibits have an English language option.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">St Peter's Cathedral</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrLxqkAYI7f18J2wP2M1fJXrIZMaYGAjCxU4FVJQiWZ9tbgmVtdI3udBO2Wsd1M2-EKtqTiU8YLSQvJNW8RPl73b1F88stHC7DdHs4rNp1tJNIqxzxNr-iMKCU2i-sScw8mzSm_0oLqidi/s1600-h/St+Peter%27s+Cathedral+geneva.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrLxqkAYI7f18J2wP2M1fJXrIZMaYGAjCxU4FVJQiWZ9tbgmVtdI3udBO2Wsd1M2-EKtqTiU8YLSQvJNW8RPl73b1F88stHC7DdHs4rNp1tJNIqxzxNr-iMKCU2i-sScw8mzSm_0oLqidi/s400/St+Peter%27s+Cathedral+geneva.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451677223861577234" border="0" /></a><br />With initial construction commencing in 1160 and lasting nearly a century, St Peter's Cathedral has over the years become a hotchpotch of architectural styles with Romanesque, Gothic and Neoclassical features. A former Catholic cathedral, St Peter's became a Protestant church in 1536 at the advent of the Reformation and was cleared of its ornate fittings such as altars, statues, paintings and furniture, but the stained glass windows remained. Prominent theologian John Calvin preached at St Peter's Church from 1536 to 1564 and the church soon became the centre of Protestantism. For a breathtaking panoramic view of Geneva and Lac Leman, climb the 157 steps that lead to the summit of the cathedral's north tower.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Temple de Saint-Pierre</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCGa6-BEIok-N9Haad1ouHFCMd1LvpDAevbxZIhPwEtLJuK8W8C9i1xlJ6QfydGXIyIBiZVtNfd0KjWUAwltlKmkxC80zYXqNZ1dcqQsSErWCxcaHqiRinW8VEQJX49gg8-UPOrYxF4kRK/s1600-h/Temple+de+Saint-Pierre+geneva.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCGa6-BEIok-N9Haad1ouHFCMd1LvpDAevbxZIhPwEtLJuK8W8C9i1xlJ6QfydGXIyIBiZVtNfd0KjWUAwltlKmkxC80zYXqNZ1dcqQsSErWCxcaHqiRinW8VEQJX49gg8-UPOrYxF4kRK/s400/Temple+de+Saint-Pierre+geneva.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451677544372252770" border="0" /></a><br />Temple de Saint-Pierre, the post-Reformation name of the Cathedral of Saint-Pierre, rises on the highest point of Geneva's old town (Vieille Ville: alt. 404 m/1,326ft), occupying the site of a Roman temple and a number of earlier churches of the fourth-fifth C. onwards. This Romanesque church with Gothic elements was built between about 1150 and 1232, with later alterations, particularly to the exterior. The two principal towers, never completed, date from the 13th C.; the metal spire over the crossing was built only in 1895, replacing a tower destroyed by fire in the 15th C. The original west front and doorway were replaced in 1749-56 by a portico of six Corinthian columns - a piece of stylistic nonconformity which does not, however, interfere with the unity of the interior. Extensive restoration of the church was carried out in 1888-98 and in 1974-79.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqL2IMd-UVxoDzRHQ9mreLjBA7d7WrNPkc2N0gUBrjX95B7hUm5ZvmHcLXvxP59QbyW1JcHShABvpXgsJYyhHakYA12hUT3LRwi9nW9nQQJKJYb8eA45SBq67_rxcE4bdm6xFRXaiBjkmC/s1600-h/Museum+of+Modern+and+Contemporary+Art.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 173px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqL2IMd-UVxoDzRHQ9mreLjBA7d7WrNPkc2N0gUBrjX95B7hUm5ZvmHcLXvxP59QbyW1JcHShABvpXgsJYyhHakYA12hUT3LRwi9nW9nQQJKJYb8eA45SBq67_rxcE4bdm6xFRXaiBjkmC/s400/Museum+of+Modern+and+Contemporary+Art.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451677661988598322" border="0" /></a><br />Opened in 1994, the cutting edge Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art refuses to conform and as museum director Christian Bernard says, the museum 'is not here to present the acceptable face of contemporary art'. With modern works dating from the 1960s to the present day, exhibited in a turn of the century factory, visitors to MAMCO will spend hours marvelling at the range of contemporary art that covers three floors. The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art constantly reinvents itself, changing its exhibits and interior construction three times a year. The works of famous Dadaist Marcel Duchamp are on display all year round.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Palais des Nations (United Nations)</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0TlZlJaWVfMcFnPaKSJgHM5TmCLxLaMmnFtvgjbW2WlSnum0Vj5m9eHwcbMUMl7A4pCkiwpNxwkJ7iNlHodXihLPjXmhRh0FCxiGt0I1EfrgqoGxniayHs4YqV2Ir0lQwZvQ88a8onHk/s1600-h/Palais+des+Nations+%28United+Nations%29+geneva.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0TlZlJaWVfMcFnPaKSJgHM5TmCLxLaMmnFtvgjbW2WlSnum0Vj5m9eHwcbMUMl7A4pCkiwpNxwkJ7iNlHodXihLPjXmhRh0FCxiGt0I1EfrgqoGxniayHs4YqV2Ir0lQwZvQ88a8onHk/s400/Palais+des+Nations+%28United+Nations%29+geneva.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451678200084941426" border="0" /></a><br />Built between 1929 and 1937 to host the League of Nations, the Palais des Nations now houses the United Nations Office at Geneva, which was inaugurated in 1966 after the dissolution of the League of Nations. The biggest United Nations station outside of the headquarters in New York, the office at Geneva provides critical support to the organization. Situated in 45-hectare Ariana Park, the extensive Palais des Nations is bordered by century old trees, and it is not uncommon to see peacocks darting around, the result of a request by the former owner of the land who bequeathed it to the City of Geneva on condition that peacocks may run freely on its grounds. Tours include the council room with frescoes by José Maria Sert and the Assembly Hall. Identity documents are required.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Plaine de Plainpalais Flea Market</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhePcEI3KdQ8vhzEWQBeAqarYGMXcEzv-tUGyx9wo9piS9fu-t_kNIeSwbUmw3xSRP_t2Vpx7Zqhuax59aCYjz2X63kSbPSuWfPoYoSqvkvAf5sNWvoK9PMEy00CCzEFII7qyPkIx7iPBcK/s1600-h/Plaine+de+Plainpalais+Flea+Market.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 273px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhePcEI3KdQ8vhzEWQBeAqarYGMXcEzv-tUGyx9wo9piS9fu-t_kNIeSwbUmw3xSRP_t2Vpx7Zqhuax59aCYjz2X63kSbPSuWfPoYoSqvkvAf5sNWvoK9PMEy00CCzEFII7qyPkIx7iPBcK/s400/Plaine+de+Plainpalais+Flea+Market.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451678450033368866" border="0" /></a><br />For quality fresh produce stop in at the Plaine de Plainpalais Flea Market on Tuesday and Friday mornings and visit the fruit and vegetable stalls in their attractive outdoor park setting. For antiques, vintage clothing, clocks, paintings, records, books and more head to the Plaine de Plainpalais Flea Market on Wednesday and Saturday, when stalls are piled high with bric a brac, sometimes at Sfr1 a pop and large crowds of residents and tourists comb the many stalls in search of bargains to be had and souvenirs to gather. Established in 1848, the Plaine de Plainpalais quarter was the setting for the Swiss National Exhibition in 1896.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Barbier-Mueller Museum</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMMIdCIzFsoA127g1e-CXCL82USU6mocGWRW_IFuutnm4n_8GjKNgQ7lBwwpBwrC4BctyovRwYrEbus5uttAriZDQYNAaSTn57y8oRyLKjy0Mer6YrCZ0ckJYKnsbLL3sQ-Pqi__n-6an/s1600-h/Barbier-Mueller+Museum.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMMIdCIzFsoA127g1e-CXCL82USU6mocGWRW_IFuutnm4n_8GjKNgQ7lBwwpBwrC4BctyovRwYrEbus5uttAriZDQYNAaSTn57y8oRyLKjy0Mer6YrCZ0ckJYKnsbLL3sQ-Pqi__n-6an/s400/Barbier-Mueller+Museum.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451678656006764114" border="0" /></a><br />A comprehensive collection of 7,000 artworks and artefacts from civilizations around the world, the Barbier-Mueller Museum in Geneva is the outcome of the articles accumulated by Josef Mueller, whose collection began in 1907 and is now continued to this day by his heirs. Founded in 1977, the museum wanted to preserve and study the sculptures, fabrics and ornaments brought from "primitive" civilizations that were once isolated communities. Lookout for the megalithic monuments from Indonesia, the statues and items of worship from Oceania, pre-Columbian art from the Americas and ancient masks and shields from Africa.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The townscape of Geneva</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj33-4i9Ibb6ChckmL_j3gSykFNbwBEKKcyDoJVjBrwA8R4YL-pHbI0lYiAx-aXq_DxArKzaCN-V0h1GyCDAlTBdggyBPw8LhQyys8EzAaTZ5EbKAZiX8V8KawcVwUyXWFmXipuV0aSCOjR/s1600-h/Geneva.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj33-4i9Ibb6ChckmL_j3gSykFNbwBEKKcyDoJVjBrwA8R4YL-pHbI0lYiAx-aXq_DxArKzaCN-V0h1GyCDAlTBdggyBPw8LhQyys8EzAaTZ5EbKAZiX8V8KawcVwUyXWFmXipuV0aSCOjR/s400/Geneva.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451678871730509794" border="0" /></a><br />The townscape of Geneva, though undramatic, is full of variety. On a steep-sided hill on the left bank of the Rhône rises the old town, dominated by the cathedral, with its picturesque old streets, flights of steps, fountains and historic buildings. On the west, south and east it is surrounded by a ring of imposing buildings and broad streets on the line of the old fortifications. The business life of the city is concentrated in the area below the old town to the north and in Saint-Gervais, formerly an outlying suburb. On both sides of the lake are elegant promenades and extensive parks and gardens. In the northern part of the town are the main railroad station, industrial establishments, craft workshops and residential areas. Most of the international organizations have their headquarters still farther north, in spacious park-like grounds. Geneva is the capital of the smallest Swiss canton, the République et Canton de Genève. It is almost entirely surrounded by French territory (free trade zones) and is connected to the rest of Switzerland only by the lake and a narrow corridor along the northwest shore of the lake. It has two small enclaves around Céligny in the canton of Vaud.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Place Neuve</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4iY0FYm6QKrUScie6lcmXXrH4dBioG86rBimFCzcCOLn7I7TnN74MRRKVysOuMKMGnfffbXYCYBMy0ekcp8I30a0muy6jajYR3i9YrK4x0mI9gtTA3I7fefGk6mwbHbcoIjpDSAxnvUHn/s1600-h/Place+Neuve+geneva.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4iY0FYm6QKrUScie6lcmXXrH4dBioG86rBimFCzcCOLn7I7TnN74MRRKVysOuMKMGnfffbXYCYBMy0ekcp8I30a0muy6jajYR3i9YrK4x0mI9gtTA3I7fefGk6mwbHbcoIjpDSAxnvUHn/s400/Place+Neuve+geneva.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451679341989763074" border="0" /></a><br />The cultural hub of Geneva, Place Neuve sits just outside the former ramparts and is a great access point for the Old Town, which lies on the other side of the high retaining walls. Home to three of Geneva's regal performance and exhibition halls, the Grand Theatre (opera house), Conservatory of Music and Rath Museum, the Place Neuve is worth visiting to witness the architectural aesthetic of these buildings. In the centre of the square is the emblematic statue of Swiss general Henri Dufour, who was the first person to establish a map of Switzerland and also presided over the First Geneva Convention. The highest mountain in Switzerland, Dufourspitze, is named after him.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mont Salève</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkL9F3DlTlfdQX5QyjWd4CzBPhrGM4zWPFP6VbnSx7Y2acG1YiKIei021VjKx6bWVxeGxCgMCrTLV1beAhJP3jTaJ5hNFLhOXOukk-P3UKfBw79GNpR60V4AKv7lNtQCqaRq9lNEaQMr-z/s1600-h/Mont+Sal%C3%A8ve+geneva.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkL9F3DlTlfdQX5QyjWd4CzBPhrGM4zWPFP6VbnSx7Y2acG1YiKIei021VjKx6bWVxeGxCgMCrTLV1beAhJP3jTaJ5hNFLhOXOukk-P3UKfBw79GNpR60V4AKv7lNtQCqaRq9lNEaQMr-z/s400/Mont+Sal%C3%A8ve+geneva.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451679472229687586" border="0" /></a><br />A good road and cableway ascend to Mont Salève, a long limestone ridge south of Geneva, in French territory (good rock-climbing):<br />16km/10mi to Monnetier, round trip 69km/43mi, maximum gradient 6%.<br />Leave Geneva by the Route de Florissant and road 42, which runs southeast via the suburb of Villette. 6km/4mi: Veyrier (alt. 422 m/1,385ft) on the French frontier (passport and customs control). Straight ahead is the lower station of a cableway 1,180 m/3,872ft long which runs up in six minutes to a height of 1,143 m/3,750ft on Mont Salève.<br />Alternatively turn left beyond Veyrier into road 206 and in 3.5km/2mi right into 206A. 7km/4mi: Mornex (572 m/1877ft, a summer holiday resort on the southern slopes of the Petit Salève. Almost opposite the Protestant church is a house in which Richard Wagner lived in 1856.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Grand Salève</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6uBKEHCn6ibTmEq6kTixpipcoHiJMo60g_yIqEGeRlwRuuhfqF73RI2ARz9-TFCIh-MObAOjlpPVAFYj_dHda8jgGb8SwBHyO5528xSpU0mUYYL9_n34UFu6TqWAhoIgkkNnL4hOl-1ab/s1600-h/Grand+Sal%C3%A8ve.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 295px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6uBKEHCn6ibTmEq6kTixpipcoHiJMo60g_yIqEGeRlwRuuhfqF73RI2ARz9-TFCIh-MObAOjlpPVAFYj_dHda8jgGb8SwBHyO5528xSpU0mUYYL9_n34UFu6TqWAhoIgkkNnL4hOl-1ab/s400/Grand+Sal%C3%A8ve.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451680309523479074" border="0" /></a><br />1.5km/1mi from the Monnetier lookout a road branches off on the right to the Treize-Arbres inn (1,184 m/3,885ft). Above the inn (1,212 m/3,977ft; orientation table) there is a magnificent view of the Mont Blanc chain, Lake Geneva and the Jura. A footpath leads up (30minutes) to the Crêt de Grange-Tournier (1,308 m/4,292ft), the highest point on the Grand Salève.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Voirons</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ZcD9K6WqPlXGpNUWU1XwD6csRkFzGUdSazeWrH0eAKtN55HCoSMPG1s0ZwrNIvxztWet7B28B8IRjkh1QMLm9vDFiMOzvocq0Wvq5dBRfzRH_uo1HJGAFDs8ufUC9jDyg2lgq9GpE0bQ/s1600-h/Voirons+geneva.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ZcD9K6WqPlXGpNUWU1XwD6csRkFzGUdSazeWrH0eAKtN55HCoSMPG1s0ZwrNIvxztWet7B28B8IRjkh1QMLm9vDFiMOzvocq0Wvq5dBRfzRH_uo1HJGAFDs8ufUC9jDyg2lgq9GpE0bQ/s400/Voirons+geneva.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451680102736279058" border="0" /></a><br />There are two alternative routes (each 37km/23mi) to this long ridge in French territory east of Geneva making an attractive round trip of 74km/ 46mi.<br />Leave Geneva on the Chamonix road. 7km/4mi: Annemasse (alt. 436 m/1,431ft). From here on N 507 to Bonne-sur-Menoge and Pont-de-Fillinges (10.5km/7mi), from which a road to the left climbs (fine views) via Boëge to the Col de Saxel (12.5km/8mi: 945 m/3,101ft); then a road on the left which winds its way uphill, passing through wooded country. 7km/4mi: Grand Chalet (1,400 m/4,593ft), sanatorium. From here it is a 30-minute climb to the Calvaire or Grand Signal, on the summit of the Voirons (1,486 m/4,876ft), with magnificent views (Savoy Alps, Jura, etc.). 8km/5mi: Bons (548 m/1,798ft), on the road from Thonon (N 203); then left along this road via Langin and Saint-Cergues to Annemasse (15km/ 9mi). 7km/4mi to Geneva.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Reformation Monument</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSc2JfiUejl8-iCCgCejOpzX_M2M5iOFufZDxcPEY19V27X5e-3kDPDz4KN7FcP8LXeKpLk_0wbXz_EGBa9uN-YJtdAdd-FPfVrD8kwEHyXPtXhPpJm7ziLtFJmsz3gw3fZ6gp8ptJnEI/s1600-h/reformation+monument.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 257px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSc2JfiUejl8-iCCgCejOpzX_M2M5iOFufZDxcPEY19V27X5e-3kDPDz4KN7FcP8LXeKpLk_0wbXz_EGBa9uN-YJtdAdd-FPfVrD8kwEHyXPtXhPpJm7ziLtFJmsz3gw3fZ6gp8ptJnEI/s400/reformation+monument.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451680733510799314" border="0" /></a><br />Against the wall under the Promenade de la Treille in Geneva can be seen the Reformation Monument (Monument de la Réformation, 1917). In the middle are figures of Calvin, Guillaume Farel, Théodore de Bèze or Beza and John Knox, and on either side are the statesmen who promoted the cause of the reformed faith and bas-reliefs with scenes from the history of the Calvinist Reformation, while at the ends are memorials to Luther and Zwingli. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Quai de Mont-Blanc</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIp0194pdeb22jNubxyAhpfCOhsrBBwhfvRAEPd_SmpZ4R7-nAqiMo1ORi98Qg9PyiKwrXn4-t1bGYZ67rumUPqNq6u0VEP8g3looxD1VYbZmwLKVivu5KbPJeWmPSp8EZzARMS6xpaDtz/s1600-h/H%C3%B4tel+Beau+Rivage.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIp0194pdeb22jNubxyAhpfCOhsrBBwhfvRAEPd_SmpZ4R7-nAqiMo1ORi98Qg9PyiKwrXn4-t1bGYZ67rumUPqNq6u0VEP8g3looxD1VYbZmwLKVivu5KbPJeWmPSp8EZzARMS6xpaDtz/s400/H%C3%B4tel+Beau+Rivage.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451681157503676466" border="0" /></a><br />On the north side of Geneva's Lac Léman (the Rive Droite) the Quai de Mont-Blanc extends northeast from the bridge, with a view of the Mont-Blanc chain (particularly fine in the late afternoon in clear weather). At the landing stage in front of the Hôtel Beau Rivage the Empress Elizabeth of Austria (b. 1837) was assassinated by an Italian anarchist in 1898.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Museum of Art and History</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjseM_CI1qnCXbGw3dJi2vyp2kdB-YgVoJ33Qa70Y5gEiso446kXLCCmXCFyK4Z0r4brJJdXHaEotBtWBZ0YV1o-6itiDZYrfxob9bM5Oo2rMEyDjOMyf9ImeXyzMir7P16yYYUcZEsgN7o/s1600-h/Museum+of+Art+and+History+geneva.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 298px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjseM_CI1qnCXbGw3dJi2vyp2kdB-YgVoJ33Qa70Y5gEiso446kXLCCmXCFyK4Z0r4brJJdXHaEotBtWBZ0YV1o-6itiDZYrfxob9bM5Oo2rMEyDjOMyf9ImeXyzMir7P16yYYUcZEsgN7o/s400/Museum+of+Art+and+History+geneva.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451681405325809730" border="0" /></a><br />Comprising of three sections, the captivating Museum of Art and History explores the passage of western culture and international civilizations with over 7,000 pieces covering archaeology (Roman, Greek, Egyptian and Etruscan), fine arts (paintings from the Renaissance to modern times) and applied arts (found objects from the Middle Ages to the 20th century). One of Geneva's largest museums, the colossal Museum of Art and History was built at the beginning of the 20th century, between 1903 and 1910. When visiting lookout for paintings by legendary artists Van Gogh and Renoir.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Patek Philippe Museum</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuhPSxqwM57MZa1kKfD0tHpbVv7AUbNCG5_8VTgNXYil5ciZXIROeqSOFsSur1MpfywGGP-AQxypspuCEiBQ7ZZZXDlKtmEBc3bI-0d6T-hTcZZiLKKDUgAl95LknTc3-UBHtEw3HeO3Zi/s1600-h/Patek+Philippe+Museum+geneva.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 389px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuhPSxqwM57MZa1kKfD0tHpbVv7AUbNCG5_8VTgNXYil5ciZXIROeqSOFsSur1MpfywGGP-AQxypspuCEiBQ7ZZZXDlKtmEBc3bI-0d6T-hTcZZiLKKDUgAl95LknTc3-UBHtEw3HeO3Zi/s400/Patek+Philippe+Museum+geneva.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451681605644042194" border="0" /></a><br />An exquisite collection of timepieces from the 16th to 19th century is housed in this fascinating museum, home to the prestigious creations of the Geneva-based firm of master watchmakers which was founded in 1839. The intricate details and designs, moving parts and beautiful colours of the collection will provide hours of fascination.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Public Parks</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnVlRb_ldd7XvPsg5ppERGXkYs_0OU5YDSWbsgSwlPGwaP5AL6JsUL_6ENrTf0-_o_ZPsqtHtVxcPReEPfq0SUpWuFyckiluDMj7KgWnaLZMatVDQXaWL4xVGie1T_coVU7FC5NI37XZXg/s1600-h/public+park+geneva.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnVlRb_ldd7XvPsg5ppERGXkYs_0OU5YDSWbsgSwlPGwaP5AL6JsUL_6ENrTf0-_o_ZPsqtHtVxcPReEPfq0SUpWuFyckiluDMj7KgWnaLZMatVDQXaWL4xVGie1T_coVU7FC5NI37XZXg/s400/public+park+geneva.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451681939524168306" border="0" /></a><br />Public parks cover over one quarter of Geneva providing the populous with a quiet haven of rolling lawns and tree lined walkways. Dotted with many curious sculptures and attractions, there are a few parks worthwhile visiting. Bastion Park houses the 328-foot (100m) Reformation Wall, a monument commemorating the major figures and events of the Protestant Reformation, as well as life size chess boards at the north end of the park. To view the famous flower clock, a symbol of the Swiss watch industry, head to the English Garden close to the water fountain and for outstanding views of Mont Blanc and the lake, Park Moynier is a firm favourite, with the History of Science Museum situated in the centre. Twenty hectares of woodland and hiking trails is what you will find at Batie Woods on the outskirts of the city. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Aquaparc</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYHKm6tUfDVdB9i-_1S6Jf2-N3ymLKNuBFZfBchJJTM_0nI2O88R23u2ihDrmPkRnrlXSt1ZAPUQyFubBUmuGdU21A4JzcH9FN65WdzW-IXMyyi75Ko_UrVmo50GkLRY32-p_2AAEkoc76/s1600-h/Aquaparc+geneva.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYHKm6tUfDVdB9i-_1S6Jf2-N3ymLKNuBFZfBchJJTM_0nI2O88R23u2ihDrmPkRnrlXSt1ZAPUQyFubBUmuGdU21A4JzcH9FN65WdzW-IXMyyi75Ko_UrVmo50GkLRY32-p_2AAEkoc76/s400/Aquaparc+geneva.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451682252205476018" border="0" /></a><br />A visit to Aquaparc is a must for families on holiday in Geneva, especially with children. This water park caters to children of all ages and features indoor and outdoor swimming and water adventure rides and slides in a tropical theme. Brave children will love rides such as the Devil's Fall and Morgan's Thrill, while parents can indulge in a massage with thousands of bubbles in the hot tubs.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Forestland</span><br />Forestland is a fantastic place to take the kids for the day to let off some steam. This adventure circuit is equipped for children and adults alike and features fun activities like branch climbing, monkey bridges, forest jumping and there are even inflatable games for younger tots to enjoy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">La Ferme Foraine Bonaventure</span><br />A great place to bring the kids, La Ferme Foraine Bonaventure features camps for children aged 6 - 12 years old, as well as offering little tots the opportunity to meet donkeys, lamas, pigs and other farmyard animals. Children will enjoy petting the animals and making new friends here.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Happyland</span><br />Happyland is Switzerland's largest amusement park and a great place for the younger children to enjoy. Kids will love rides such as Splash River, Tropical Track, the Big Swing and Helico Low G. Happyland also features a restaurant where families can refuel before heading out to enjoy more rides.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Night Life</span><br /><strong>Bars<br /></strong><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgilR2CFJwZnRTb2zXsPOWkax1zp_IABevu5OsAOFrcKtJXk-Iqo-BaQJIodTRxmIFvGp2YXUreEP-SjrUO1RS9FOPekgdT9qHSNeH_W-MXCiyMwyDcp8Ywu2Ml46WZiAlaJ5RiIVn8ywey/s1600-h/Alhambar.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgilR2CFJwZnRTb2zXsPOWkax1zp_IABevu5OsAOFrcKtJXk-Iqo-BaQJIodTRxmIFvGp2YXUreEP-SjrUO1RS9FOPekgdT9qHSNeH_W-MXCiyMwyDcp8Ywu2Ml46WZiAlaJ5RiIVn8ywey/s400/Alhambar.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451683707341072290" border="0" /></a><br />The Old Town is a good starting point for a night out. <strong>La Clémence</strong>, Place du Bourg-de-Four 20, is extremely popular, particularly in the summer when crowds of all ages enjoy the large terrace. The bar-restaurant at the gilded <strong>Bohème</strong>, Boulevard Helvétique 36, is a good place to move on to - the mix of Arab and techno music is popular and the atmosphere is relatively relaxed, although trainers are not allowed. The most alternative bars in the city are scattered around Place des Volontaires. Worth mentioning are <strong>Alhambar</strong>, Rue de la Rôtisserie 10, which has theme nights, and <strong>Barrio's Latino</strong>, Rue Henri Dunant 6, for its safari décor.<br /><br /><strong>Clubs<br /></strong><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KjVhJV1F-HXE11sJFV-kM1JofashyphenhyphenIwReuRb6eoOx2hC9XshPjggZfNmJeMRWoQMEGuF0R1gBUAmSADkYv9t8xHhyphenhyphenDQo8nXgUQ0Fmjd3UNE6hPDVUzs9_CQwXudQkZhkCH819ENDHYeu/s1600-h/White'n+Silver+geneva.jpeg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 258px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KjVhJV1F-HXE11sJFV-kM1JofashyphenhyphenIwReuRb6eoOx2hC9XshPjggZfNmJeMRWoQMEGuF0R1gBUAmSADkYv9t8xHhyphenhyphenDQo8nXgUQ0Fmjd3UNE6hPDVUzs9_CQwXudQkZhkCH819ENDHYeu/s400/White'n+Silver+geneva.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451683471677771010" border="0" /></a><br />Geneva is not particularly known for its clubs and many people prefer to go to Lausanne. Nevertheless, the intimate <strong>White'n Silver</strong> (formerly<em> </em>Club 58), Rue des Glacis de Rive 15 (website: <a href="http://www.whitensilver.ch/" target="_blank">www.whitensilver.ch</a>), has a bar, dance floor and chic clientele, while smart <strong>Platinum</strong>, Quai du Seujet 18 (website: <a href="http://www.platinum-club.ch/" target="_blank">www.platinum-club.ch</a>), attracts a trendy clientele with its resident DJ and guest performers and themed nights. The club is open seven days a week. Or try the <strong>B Club</strong>, Place de la Fusterie 12 (see Le Baroque Café below) for a similarly hip atmosphere. The biggest club in Geneva is the new <strong>Java Club</strong> at the Grand Hotel Kempinski, Quai du Mont-Blanc 19 (website: <a href="http://www.javaclub.ch/" target="_blank">www.javaclub.ch</a>). <strong>LA SIP</strong>, Rue des Vieux-Grenadiers 10, is a cool, gay friendly venue located in an old factory, and <strong>Le Scandale</strong>, Rue de Lausanne 24 (website: <a href="http://www.lescandale.ch/" target="_blank">www.lescandale.ch</a>), is a trendy place to dance the night away.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Transportations</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">By foot</span><br />The old-town can be easily visited by foot starting anywhere around the tour boat dock on Lake Geneva. Crossing the bridge (Pont du Mont Blanc), you'll get to the English Garden with the famous flower clock and a sculpted bronze water fountain. Then you can cross the street (Quai de General Guisan) and go up the hill (on Place du Port and Rue de la Fontaine) and up the long stairs passage and end up behind Saint Peter's Cathedral. After visiting the cathedral, which is Geneva's well-known landmark, you can exit the courtyard and be right in front of Geneva City Hall. From there you can easily walk down to the Bastions Park where you can find the famous Reformation Wall memorial. This park is very quiet and romantic, especially at the beginning of the fall season when the leaves start falling.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">By bike</span><br />Geneva is a great town to get around in by bicycle. Except for the old-town, the city is fairly flat, and though there are some streets that are dangerous to ride, there is almost always a safe, fast route to your destination. If you want to know the best routes, you should get a copy of the beautifully designed VELO-LOVE plan de ville, which is available at all bike shops in Geneva, or by writing to: velo@ville-ge.ch or calling (+41) 22 418 42 00.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">By bus</span><br />Tickets, which cover both trams and buses, must be bought from ticket machines (located at every stop) before boarding the transport.<br /><br />Tickets cost 2CHF for a short hop (three stops or less, or a one-way crossing of the lake). 3CHF for one hour with unlimited changes on tram, bus, boat, and rail within greater Geneva, 7CHF for a pass valid from 9AM to midnight, and 10CHF for a 24-hour pass valid from the time it is purchased. Holders of the SBB Demi-Tarif/Halbtax card get 20-30% off these prices. The ticket machines do not give change, if you have over paid, keep the ticket and take it to a TPG office (located at the airport, Cornavin railway station and in the middle of the rond-pont de Rive), where the difference will be refunded to you.<br /><br />Since January 2008, if you stay in a hotel, hostel, or on a camping site, you will get free public transport. Typically, you will receive a Unireso Geneva Transport Card at check-in. It will be authorised for use for the length of your stay and like a ticket one gets in the airport upon arrival it is valid for Geneva and suburbs including the Unireso network. You are supposed to carry your passport or identity card with you at the same time, to ensure validity. The ticket is valid on trains as far as the airport.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">By car</span><br />If you want to explore the mountainous countryside or go skiing in one of the ski resorts in the Alps, getting a car is a better option. Numerous local and international car rental service providers operate from the airport. They provide customized traveling services to the needs of tourists visiting Geneva.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">By train</span><br />Regional trains to suburban areas run every half hour during the day and every hour after 8PM. The last train to the eastern terminus, (Coppet), leaves at 12:03AM. Though these "Regios" mostly serve commuters, at least two of their station stops, Versoix and Coppet, have several good restaurants and historic main streets. As with buses and trams, tickets must be bought before boarding the train. If you are only travelling with the canton of Geneva, a bus/tram ticket is valid on the train and vice versa; travelling further afield will cost more.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">By Tram</span><br />Geneva has an expanding network of super frequent trams. Many lines have their hub at the Cornavin train station, a few others at Place Bel-Air on the old-town side of the river. Tickets which cover both trams and buses must be bought from ticket machines (located at every stop) before boarding the transport.QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-70382474827575095492010-03-16T05:06:00.000-07:002010-03-16T05:24:00.764-07:00Best Affordable Beach Resorts with Perfect Beaches<div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201003-w-beach-villa_scarpariello.jpg" /></div><div class="ygcl"><!-- --></div><div class="img_credit"><h4>Villa Scarpariello</h4> <p><b>Italy, $186</b></p> <p>On a cliff a half-mile from Amalfi, the whitewashed Villa Scarpariello could be your wealthy Italian friend’s private retreat. All five rooms are filled with family heirlooms and artisan handiwork — antique writing desks, pink-and-turquoise Vietri tiles — </p>and have wooden shutters that open onto the Mediterranean. If you’re looking for a stretch of powdery sand, head to Baia di Castiglione, a 10-minute walk away, though the villa’s pool and waterfront deck are just as inviting.<br /><br /><br /><div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201003-w-beach-antigua.jpg" /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;" class="ygcl"><!-- --></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ocean Inn</span></span> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Antigua, $110</b></span></p> <p>Judging by the multimillion dollar yachts moored in English Harbour, you wouldn’t expect to find an affordable hotel for miles. But that’s not the case: the intimate Ocean Inn, whose wooden walkways connect 12 bright rooms, is a steal. Try No. 3, which goes for the same price as a standard room but has a balcony thrown in for free, or one of the two suites in the master cottage, perfect for privacy seekers.</p><p><br /></p><div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201003-w-beach-furagama.jpg" /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;" class="ygcl"><!-- --></div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Furama Resort</span> <p><b>Vietnam, $215</b></p> <p>The Furama Resort is located on China Beach, the famous 18-mile stretch of coastline in central Vietnam. A combination of colonial-era and traditional Asian design defines this 198-room beachfront property. The resort offers everything from tai chi classes on the beach and tours of the four nearby UNESCO World Heritage sites to serene night dives with sea turtles in the South China Sea.</p><div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/oursin.jpg" /></div><h4>Hôtel l’Oursin</h4> <p><b>France, $100</b></p> <p>Set on Cap Ferrat, between Nice and Monte Carlo, Hôtel l’Oursin is a petite, 14-room charmer with Provençal flair (embroidered toile bedspreads; carved walnut headboards). Two of the largest rooms face the harbor, with its bobbing sailboats. Walk along the sunny waterfront promenade and stop at one of the numerous outdoor cafés for bouillabaisse, or stroll through the village down to the pebbled Mediterranean beaches.</p><div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201003-w-beach-kaawa.jpg" /></div><h4>Ka’awa Loa Plantation & Guesthouse</h4> <p><b>Hawaii, $125</b></p> <p>Each of the five stylish rooms at Ka’awa Loa Plantation & Guesthouse — a tiny B&B run by gregarious owners Michael Martinage and Gregory Nunn — comes with panoramic views of Kealakekua Bay. A breakfast of eggs, fresh star fruit, and coffee grown on site is served on the 2,000-square-foot wraparound porch. The nearby lava-rock beaches, Kealakekua and Puuhonua O Honaunau, are known for the best snorkeling on the Big Island.</p><p><br /></p><div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201003-w-beach-manchebo.jpg" /></div><div class="ygcl"><!-- --></div><h4>Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa</h4> <p><b>Aruba, $169</b></p> <p>The Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa — a spiffed-up former Best Western on the western coast of the island — has 71 simple rooms, most of which open right onto one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful stretches of sand. If you’re in search of palapas, azure water, and a cocktail, what more could you need? Maybe a shiatsu massage at the beachfront spa, set in a tropical garden.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201003-w-beach-calibishie.jpg" /></div><div style="font-weight: bold;" class="ygcl"><!-- --></div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Calibishie Cove</span> <p><b>Dominica, $148</b></p> <p>The diminutive Calibishie Cove — on the mountainous island’s beach-studded northeastern corner — is a colonial-style hotel with just four rooms, each with platform beds, large shutters, and a private patio overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Snorkel with sea horses and turtles in the warm waters off the near-empty Hodges Beach; or arrange for a picnic lunch of spiny lobster, borrow one of the hotel’s kayaks, and head to Treasure Island, an uninhabited islet 10 minutes away.</p><div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/langkawi.jpg" /></div><div class="ygcl"><!-- --></div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Temple Tree at Bon Ton Resort</span> <p><b>Malaysia, $143</b></p> <p>Chinese tin miners, Arab goldsmiths, and durian farmers once lived in the 100-year-old villas at Temple Tree at Bon Ton Resort, on Malaysia’s Langkawi Island. Each one is named after an indigenous flower — white frangipani; yellow orchid — and most are appointed with Turkish rugs and deep wooden tubs. The golden beaches of Pantai Cenang are a 10-minute walk away; take a small boat out to Daya Bunting, one of the 99 uninhabited islands nearby.</p><p><br /></p><div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201003-w-beach-radissondubrovnik.jpg" /></div><h4>Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Dubrovnik</h4> <p><b>Croatia, $221</b></p> <p>The glass-and-steel Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Dubrovnik is as big and bold as the yachts that cruise the Dalmatian Coast. With a 37,000-square-foot Anne Sémonin spa, 13 restaurants, three swimming pools, and its own market selling local fruit, the Radisson feels less like a resort and more like a small Adriatic Coast village. The 408 rooms—all done in blue and white with spare furnishings—overlook the hotel’s private sandy beach, just 70 feet away.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/bananaazul.jpg" /></div><div class="ygcl"><!-- --></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hotel Banana Azul</span></span> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Costa Rica, $69</b></span></p> <p>The Hotel Banana Azul, a 14-room retreat on a black-sand strand, embodies the area’s laid-back feeling. Bright wood-paneled rooms feature such tropical touches as dangling bromeliad plants and locally made easy chairs. (For $139 a night, upgrade to the Howler Suite, an airy corner room with an outdoor soaking tub and ocean views.) Hammocks are strung under coconut palms — an ideal spot for piña coladas.</p></div>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-49977059745554936672010-03-08T08:29:00.000-08:002010-03-08T08:54:57.452-08:00World's Coolest Hot SpringsSometimes surreal, always sublime, and occasionally stinky, these 10 steaming pools of wellness are worth a dip.<br /><div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><p>From the icy tundra of Alaska to the arid desert of the Atacama, our molten-to-the-core planet is laced with underground plumbing that regularly springs a surface leak. And visiting these hot springs can be a therapeutic addition to any vacation.</p> <p>An hour or two in a thermal pool—especially one surrounded by natural beauty and clean air—is just about the greenest way to relax and recharge, courtesy of our blue planet.</p><h4>Blue Lagoon</h4><h4><b>Grindavik, Iceland</b></h4> <div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201002-w-springs-iceland.jpg" /></div><b>The Soak:</b> Healing power on a massive scale—literally, as its real purpose is to supply hot water and electricity to 45,000 Icelanders—this lagoon just outside Reykjavik holds 1.6 million gallons of 99°F–102°F geothermal seawater laced with silica, minerals, and algae. <p><b>The Scene:</b> With 400,000 visitors annually, Blue Lagoon has a theme-park feel. Still, a soak here is undeniably cool, like a communal pool party of Icelanders and tourists slathering silky silica mud on their faces and bodies.</p> <p><b>When to Go:</b> Year-round, but Iceland’s winters are notoriously glum with just a few hours of daylight, while summers are 24/7 celebrations since the sun barely sets.</p><p><br /></p><h4>Banff Upper Hot Springs</h4> <p><b>Alberta, Canada</b></p><div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201002-w-springs-banff.jpg" /></div> <p><b>The Soak:</b> What’s a little pungent aroma when you’re surrounded by the majesty of some of North America’s most awe-inspiring peaks—including aptly named Sulphur Mountain? Discovered in 1884, these soothing 98°F–104°F waters are loaded not only with sulphate but also with calcium, magnesium, sodium, and bicarbonate.</p> <p><b>The Scene:</b> Set amid the glacier-studded panoramas of Banff National Park, the spring-fed pools are serviced by a retro-rustic 1930s bathhouse with splendid views of Mount Rundle. Hike the steep 3.5-mile switchback trail up Sulphur Mountain before a pre-sundown soak.</p> <p><b>When to Go:</b> Year-round, but for fewer crowds and peak foliage visit in the morning during early fall.<br /></p><div class="ygcl"><!-- --></div><h4><br /></h4><h4>Pamukkale</h4> <p><b>Denizli, Turkey</b></p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfpWUwW80MPyaqHie4USFGvonX1e0fAk1IF2NlrNprwoVAD9BMbbmQalAsm_2dxzn0L40AWu6r1Z7t7tenSHRNbN7IPgiiRZhYUB8F-6YRFwj9YvzaiGfNg58cFkAENs5UO0NLs5t3M4xo/s1600-h/turkey.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 202px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfpWUwW80MPyaqHie4USFGvonX1e0fAk1IF2NlrNprwoVAD9BMbbmQalAsm_2dxzn0L40AWu6r1Z7t7tenSHRNbN7IPgiiRZhYUB8F-6YRFwj9YvzaiGfNg58cFkAENs5UO0NLs5t3M4xo/s400/turkey.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446303600278678130" border="0" /></a></p><p><b>The Soak:</b> Known as the Sacred Pool, this divine dip in southwestern Turkey lives up to its name: as you float in spring-fed water that’s a relatively refreshing 94°F, look up at a cerulean Aegean sky and down at 2,000-year-old Greek and Roman antiquities scattered on the pool’s floor.</p> <p><b>The Scene:</b> The eye candy here is a panorama of gleaming white terraces—Pamukkale means “Cotton Castle” in Turkish—created as flowing water deposited layers of calcium carbonate. Soaking in these natural pools is no longer allowed, but you can snap photos and then visit the nearby Roman city of Hierapolis.</p> <p><b>When to Go:</b> Year-round, but early fall is particularly lovely.</p><p><br /></p><h4>Hot Water Beach</h4> <p><b>Waikato, New Zealand</b></p> <div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201002-w-springs-waikato.jpg" /></div><div class="ygcl"><!-- --><b>The Soak:</b> “No pain, no gain” is the motto at this unique beach just south of the North Island’s Mercury Bay: you have to bring a shovel and dig your own “hot tub,” which for two hours before and after low tide will fill with spring-fed water laced with calcium, magnesium, potassium, silica, and fluorine. Note: also bring a bucket to add cold seawater to regulate the temperature, which can emerge at a scalding 147°F.</div> <p><b>The Scene:</b> It’s a communal Kiwi beach bash, so arrive early to stake out your circle of sand. </p><p><b>When to Go:</b> Year-round, but summer (December to March) is ideal.</p><p><br /></p><h4>Chena Hot Springs</h4> <p><b>Fairbanks, Alaska</b></p> <div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/chena.jpg" /></div> <p><b>The Soak:</b> The adults-only Rock Lake, fed by sulfur-tinged springs, reaches a toasty 106°F, but the truly hot ticket is the blazing aurora borealis (northern lights), neon-hued curtains of charged particles that dance across the late-night sky above you.</p> <p><b>The Scene:</b> Rock Lake is part of the 105-year-old Chena Hot Springs Resort; located 60 miles from Fairbanks, it has 80 rooms and suites, plus an indoor springs-fed pool (chlorinated and 94°F), a spa, an ice museum, and dogsled tours.</p> <p><b>When to Go:</b> Year-round, but the northern lights are most spectacular from September to March.</p><p><br /></p><h4>Jigokudani Monkey Park</h4> <p><b>Yamanouchi, Japan</b></p> <div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201002-w-springs-jigokudani.jpg" /></div> <p><b>The Soak:</b> The old adage “monkey see, monkey do” is apropos, as this mountain region’s Japanese macaques (a.k.a. snow monkeys) have taken such a liking to the steamy onsens (Japanese for “hot springs”) that they’ve claimed the best for themselves. All we hapless humans can do is watch—and then head to Yamanouchi town, where a dozen-plus traditional (no swimsuits) communal onsens await.</p> <p><b>The Scene:</b> Jigokudani means “Hell’s Valley,” and it is a trek to get to these secluded pools located at 2,790 feet and a mile-plus by foot through formidable forest. But persevering monkey fans will be rewarded.</p> <p><b>When to Go:</b> Winter, when the simian-filled springs are steamiest and skiers can hit the slopes at nearby 1998 Nagano Olympics site Shiga Kogen.</p><h4>Thermae Bath Spa</h4> <p><b>Bath, England</b></p> <div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201002-w-springs-thermae.jpg" /></div> <p><b>The Soak:</b> Enjoy a splash of history at Britain’s only natural thermal springs—the water is believed to have fallen as rain 10,000 years ago—which have vanquished stress for everyone from conquering Celts and Romans (their ancient baths are now a museum) to politicians and poets. Although the water surfaces at a red-hot 113°F, the spa’s intimate Cross Bath and rooftop New Royal Bath are a comfy 93°F.</p> <p><b>The Scene:</b> Paging Mr. Darcy! One of Britain’s loveliest Georgian cities, Bath is best known for its honey-hued limestone crescents and celebrated resident-author Jane Austen.</p> <p><b>When to Go:</b> Year-round.</p><p><br /></p><h4>Calistoga Hot Springs</h4> <p><b>Calistoga, Calif.</b></p> <div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201002-w-springs-calistoga.jpg" /></div> <p><b>The Soak:</b> There’s lots more than hot water on tap at this onetime hippie hangout in Napa Valley: Calistoga’s mud baths are as free-flowing as Merlot. Chill-out types will find an array of spas—from frayed-at-the-edges to five-star—offering 80°F–102°F geothermal pools and volcanic ash mud pits where sassy slathering is not verboten.</p> <p><b>The Scene:</b> Founded in 1885, Calistoga’s wines are known to loosen inhibitions and lips—as they did when Samuel Brannan christened it “the Calistoga of Sarafornia” (he meant to say the Saratoga of California).</p> <p><b>When to Go:</b> Year-round.</p><p><br /></p><h4>Dunton Hot Springs</h4> <p><b>Dolores, Colo.</b></p> <div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201002-w-springs-dunton.jpg" /></div> <p><b>The Soak:</b> Yee-haw! This impeccably restored ghost town, located at 8,600 feet in the San Juan Mountains near Telluride, offers six ways to soak in waters ranging from 85°F–106°F and rich in calcium-bicarbonate, iron, and manganese with a pinch of lithium. The most authentic (and hottest) is under the stars at the source; the most private is the king-bedded Well House cabin for two.</p> <p><b>The Scene:</b> Twelve hand-hewn cabins, built by gold miners in the 1800s and given a five-star facelift, bunk up to 42 people. Social hubs are the Saloon (serving organic local cuisine) and the Bath House (with two geothermal pools).</p> <p><b>When to Go:</b> Year-round.</p><p><br /></p><h4>Puritama Hot Springs</h4> <p><b>Atacama Desert, Chile</b></p> <div class="pic" style="float: left; margin-bottom: 0px;"><img src="http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/tr/201002-w-springs-puritama.jpg" /></div> <p><b>The Soak:</b> The high desert—and at 11,482 feet, we mean high—of this geyser-spiked South American region provides a dramatic backdrop for eight secluded pools named for the term “hot water” in the indigenous Kunza language. While not especially scorching at 91°F, they do, however, have a brilliant blue-green color and an ultrarelaxing aura. </p><p><b>The Scene:</b> Maintained by luxury adventure resort Explora Atacama, the pools, north of San Pedro de Atacama, are open to the public but are rarely crowded. </p><p><b>When to Go:</b> Year-round, but the weather is best from October to June. </p> </div> <div class="ygcl"><!-- --></div>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-62082878796114106432010-03-07T07:04:00.000-08:002010-03-07T09:52:50.254-08:00Prince Edward Island "Most Beautiful Canadian Island"<p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-um15vVagBk_6nuU7LTON-nruR1mf2Moxxpsi1W6gv8yCUnT-H06dsvTEGdXZuvcsnnItAfNC3z9Eho0OU7xKYqqsGnOdNasBrAeb5_M5FAdANWiZp1vqjsRVqr6ApW5d184kwV8hJG1U/s1600-h/prince+edward+island.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 263px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-um15vVagBk_6nuU7LTON-nruR1mf2Moxxpsi1W6gv8yCUnT-H06dsvTEGdXZuvcsnnItAfNC3z9Eho0OU7xKYqqsGnOdNasBrAeb5_M5FAdANWiZp1vqjsRVqr6ApW5d184kwV8hJG1U/s400/prince+edward+island.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445922099001626914" border="0" /></a></p><p>Prince Edward Island is Canada's smallest and greenest province. Cradled on the waves of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, PEI is known for the vivid colours of its gently rolling landscape. Prince Edward Island is surrounded by miles of sandy beaches and red sandstone cliffs and is sized just right for touring.</p> <!---<h3>Everyone needs a vacation, and a <a href="/pei-online-reservations">vacation deal</a>!&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#160;</h3> <p><a href="/accommodations/search-menu.php">Hotels</a>, <a href="/pei-bed-and-breakfast-inn">Inns / B&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;B's</a> and <a href="/pei-cottages">cottages</a> on Prince Edward island are offering unbeatable rates <a href="/fall-vacation-ideas">this fall</a>. We have a wide variety of <a href="/pei-shopping">shops</a> and <a href="/pei-dining">restaurants</a> in every price range. Our<a href="/pei-golf"> golf courses</a> have green fees much lower than you might imagine. And our tranquil days, stunning views, and dazzling colours are all free. ---> <!-- Choose from more than 130 events, including Farm Day in the City, Organic Harvest Meal, and the Handcrafted Ales &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp; Wine Festival.--> <!--Visitors to the Island return home not only relaxed and refreshed - they often claim to have been transformed, which leads us to wonder "What if the World Had Been to Prince Edward Island?"--><!-- <b>OPEN FOR FALL...</b><br />Fall on Prince Edward Island means breathing time after a busy summer. The Island&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#8217;s rolling landscape will lower your blood pressure and prepare you for the active winter season. Our calendar is packed with great events, and the shops, inns and restaurants are open and awaiting your visit. And we have special fall deals you won&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#8217;t be able to resist. Come on over to PEI this fall!--> <img alt="" src="http://www.tourismpei.com/visitorsguide/assets/images/global/spacer.gif" width="1" border="0" height="5" /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Blue Heron Drive</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8CLPkCXZsBVYqvRp6yLTExifP0rWN2xr0nwbFtXa90X1XaqxbJETaqLfWx9c3TjGFlIOUYGayAFgsjBBSRUBo8rRoj8Hb4jSfeOWP1-ZsCwPH8WKnbe8cjTo6kgGwRcfzgEa5mTxaaKgD/s1600-h/Blue+Heron+Drive.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8CLPkCXZsBVYqvRp6yLTExifP0rWN2xr0nwbFtXa90X1XaqxbJETaqLfWx9c3TjGFlIOUYGayAFgsjBBSRUBo8rRoj8Hb4jSfeOWP1-ZsCwPH8WKnbe8cjTo6kgGwRcfzgEa5mTxaaKgD/s400/Blue+Heron+Drive.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445908858207571426" border="0" /></a><br />Blue Heron Drive (about 200 km / 124 mi), in the central part of the island, has as its main attraction the long silvery beaches of the North Shore - the best are in Prince Edward Island National Park (entrance fee only if by car). The drive passes through many little holiday resorts and many of the island's tourist attractions and leisure parks, the most interesting being places connected with that famous book "Anne of Green Gables".<br /><br />From Charlottetown Blue Heron Drive follows the North Shore, with its fine beaches and red sandstone cliffs, then at New London Bay, further west, it comes to the home of the blue heron after which it is named (the sign is a blue heron on a blue-framed square white background). From here it turns south to the South Shore, with several Provincial Parks and their beaches, campsites and picnic areas, ending up back at Charlottetown.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Cavendish </span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqHQFfFNsCSuWx9s0_QCoNd4kLvcPu08iqNdquEamZWnUvEW0hOTRNuk2pOy64-wi8ueJdMQMzEiPevMNf_EoaJPgNM79DT3D82xYdVMYeFuTh5FWQhlTdG_xBzugLOBxnki2GzEe4vJBk/s1600-h/Cavendish.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqHQFfFNsCSuWx9s0_QCoNd4kLvcPu08iqNdquEamZWnUvEW0hOTRNuk2pOy64-wi8ueJdMQMzEiPevMNf_EoaJPgNM79DT3D82xYdVMYeFuTh5FWQhlTdG_xBzugLOBxnki2GzEe4vJBk/s400/Cavendish.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445909618919699458" border="0" /></a><br />Cavendish has one of Canada's most popular beaches. Its Rainbow Valley amusement park of about 9 ha (22 acres) has pleasant gardens, a boating lake and a barn.<br /><br />The biggest attraction around Cavendish is the Avonlea Village of Anne of Green Gables.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sandspit Cavendish Beach</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkC5i3It6cZR6Vb9jTFzFzBwVCJR0VFYay-PfpOWiwngRrzunClalcG7mW7tFgdeUGtQDfbPaRN8gyvFOIVGfgqat27DLadGbbIoa-duF2dh0t7cB3n79uLuo1vrej4LubcJ1RC_iM3Gh0/s1600-h/Sandspit+Cavendish+Beach.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 283px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkC5i3It6cZR6Vb9jTFzFzBwVCJR0VFYay-PfpOWiwngRrzunClalcG7mW7tFgdeUGtQDfbPaRN8gyvFOIVGfgqat27DLadGbbIoa-duF2dh0t7cB3n79uLuo1vrej4LubcJ1RC_iM3Gh0/s400/Sandspit+Cavendish+Beach.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445910237120418098" border="0" /></a><br />Sandspit Cavendish Beach has 18 rides and attractions for all ages including a rollercoaster, go-karts, classic family rides, a miniature golf course and rides geared to children.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Green Gables Farmhouse</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzm_Id6i0YWJ6-c8f0UpA6byVvHwpGGtbGTIjH5uimofMcti3GGE_0BM9A52sFrBHjJ2E1AYdVN9P0xQgfmlT2u-IHQBY5pHlZqZKOwcKndaY96sIZSftR4_LiR7IAH8C2fJq3ZBqOyxT3/s1600-h/Anne+of+Green+Gables.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzm_Id6i0YWJ6-c8f0UpA6byVvHwpGGtbGTIjH5uimofMcti3GGE_0BM9A52sFrBHjJ2E1AYdVN9P0xQgfmlT2u-IHQBY5pHlZqZKOwcKndaY96sIZSftR4_LiR7IAH8C2fJq3ZBqOyxT3/s400/Anne+of+Green+Gables.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445912555688797602" border="0" /></a><br />The countryside around Cavendish was the setting for Avonlea, Lucy Maud Montgomery's fictional farming community of her famous novel "Anne of Green Gables". The Green Gables Farmhouse, about 2 km (1 mi.) west of the town on Highway 6 near the Cavendish entrance to the national park, is an enduring reminder of this popular children's classic.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ann of Green Gables Museum</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiubNOVsKNVagH-R9fBPiIuk9Jwaqv8TDXw1ZCr6j6-LsIymW6WA8H5M9jlKZqDs7FlSNZ1uhaXzOp4Q2qwJnDuOm08FD9ZTQNA1tihe9fVss1PNW-Ne3booFbCiyPCSPkbgzmeC1Z4LGlv/s1600-h/Ann+of+Green+Gables+Museum.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiubNOVsKNVagH-R9fBPiIuk9Jwaqv8TDXw1ZCr6j6-LsIymW6WA8H5M9jlKZqDs7FlSNZ1uhaXzOp4Q2qwJnDuOm08FD9ZTQNA1tihe9fVss1PNW-Ne3booFbCiyPCSPkbgzmeC1Z4LGlv/s400/Ann+of+Green+Gables+Museum.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445913284117779234" border="0" /></a><br />The "Anne of Green Gables Museum" in Kensington is in the house built in 1872 where Lucy Maud Montgomery lived from time to time, and is packed with Montgomery memorabilia including signed copies of the first edition of the famous novel.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Malpeque</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsR3neIY5h_3gu1SxF9rwxfmJDRzsC5bshODyrYa7EbJCs-hwVtekRBh41l1ch0n8BYo8s2t0ZvcFzg2d-og8FOb9iXDnBCkNjxytoXIDu_3Ttcyuupv_Dp8jHsulGXCnkWZ4Hy-yfMQRg/s1600-h/Malpeque.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsR3neIY5h_3gu1SxF9rwxfmJDRzsC5bshODyrYa7EbJCs-hwVtekRBh41l1ch0n8BYo8s2t0ZvcFzg2d-og8FOb9iXDnBCkNjxytoXIDu_3Ttcyuupv_Dp8jHsulGXCnkWZ4Hy-yfMQRg/s400/Malpeque.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445913781664371890" border="0" /></a><br />Malpeque is one of Prince Edward Island's historic sites. A home to the Micmac, it was settled by the French in the early 18th c. Captain Samuel Holland, sent here by the British in 1765, named the place "Princeton", but it later reverted to its old Indian name. Much of the later immigration was from Scotland, and many of their descendants still live here today.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Malpeque Gardens</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcWvo7a4ErKHG9-63NUPGkPvmPsqiH6v1QJ6Yqr4rPmUF-NGGlo8a63CTSZjCKvVb0GDehD3EMyg1WIHSzRejv9h31hHY2kpfsHMWX8opsPbjN3U-lgWlXoRQbrCTNFszqBw0F0ELtNaGE/s1600-h/Malpeque+Gardens.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcWvo7a4ErKHG9-63NUPGkPvmPsqiH6v1QJ6Yqr4rPmUF-NGGlo8a63CTSZjCKvVb0GDehD3EMyg1WIHSzRejv9h31hHY2kpfsHMWX8opsPbjN3U-lgWlXoRQbrCTNFszqBw0F0ELtNaGE/s400/Malpeque+Gardens.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445914901674930258" border="0" /></a><br />One of the finest gardens in eastern Canada, Malpeque has several hundreds of different kinds of flowers, including dahlias and roses, and contains such interesting features as an old windmill and a showcase beehive.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Port-la-Joye-Fort Amherst National Historic Site</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmdXLLHOxqBkH0Dv7YaIlCcLHviLtfTP8oXvV32_vBbpjzo3qXz6halFTYrFqdKp6NHE8UgK37FaVtyJrQP0kl90OMded5Rrl3NPJeW0_TiD7QwB7Nqt0vjBDD-ohyck5HPYqmC1XDhWkm/s1600-h/Port-la-Joye-Fort+Amherst+National+Historic+Site.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmdXLLHOxqBkH0Dv7YaIlCcLHviLtfTP8oXvV32_vBbpjzo3qXz6halFTYrFqdKp6NHE8UgK37FaVtyJrQP0kl90OMded5Rrl3NPJeW0_TiD7QwB7Nqt0vjBDD-ohyck5HPYqmC1XDhWkm/s400/Port-la-Joye-Fort+Amherst+National+Historic+Site.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445916260024410530" border="0" /></a><br />Port de la Joie, was the first place on the island to be settled by the French in 1720. The British built Fort Amherst here in 1758 after they captured the settlement, but today only the earthworks remain. The whole site has been declared the Port-la-Joye-Fort Amherst National Historic Site of Canada. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Green Provincial Park</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGPhsNBpayXNa8LOCc0y4oGl4WLYBxT0UsmZuN2msZtB3q6xCd74IDvpMEtMsGKHj8Lzj9SgZPM1HkkE_zhikuCl92n5PN9Fl7GvkRoOFKUfEN-LUBAKMxgrlI1OwrQcerHzRRK-fh4XXH/s1600-h/Green+Provincial+Park.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGPhsNBpayXNa8LOCc0y4oGl4WLYBxT0UsmZuN2msZtB3q6xCd74IDvpMEtMsGKHj8Lzj9SgZPM1HkkE_zhikuCl92n5PN9Fl7GvkRoOFKUfEN-LUBAKMxgrlI1OwrQcerHzRRK-fh4XXH/s400/Green+Provincial+Park.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445916822839507410" border="0" /></a><br />The road to Green Provincial Park winds its way through woodland groves and open fields. At the center of the park is the elegant villa of shipbuilding magnate James Yeo Jr. Built in 1865, the villa has been restored and filled with period furniture. The history of shipbuilding on Prince Edward Island is told in a modern exhibition building and a 19th c. shipyard at the water's edge shows how a wooden ship was built. The park has what are probably the finest campsites on the island.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Lady Slipper Drive</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmr4ZdWGXntwohyphenhyphendJnnW83OGH-swCxRi4MvcYtdYKQddAy1xggxRcnyFHQShfIU-S4Vr51g_DX0xnJb6OnL5E4KynGzPPXnTEQLafc7EFqPkhI3mMtVgcWz9gsrAiVFAeSlOxD5HOry7Ff/s1600-h/Lady+Slipper+Drive.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmr4ZdWGXntwohyphenhyphendJnnW83OGH-swCxRi4MvcYtdYKQddAy1xggxRcnyFHQShfIU-S4Vr51g_DX0xnJb6OnL5E4KynGzPPXnTEQLafc7EFqPkhI3mMtVgcWz9gsrAiVFAeSlOxD5HOry7Ff/s400/Lady+Slipper+Drive.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445917422781759522" border="0" /></a><br />Named after the Lady Slipper orchid, Prince Edward Island's floral emblem which grows in its shady woodland, the drive is signed by a red orchid in a red frame on a square white background. Lady Slipper Drive (about 300 km (186 mi.)) follows the coastline in the western part of the island, with its red sandstone cliffs, silvery sands and lush green meadows, passing through peaceful farmland growing mostly potatoes.<br /><br />This part of Prince County has lots of little villages, many of them quite old and still following a traditional way of life. Here live the descendants of the French-speaking Acadians who since 1884 have had their own flag as a symbol of their cultural unity.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Acadian Pioneer Village</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv0TyL6J4J7tGWilrP6jgonloxOfe3bhZ_-QC7RdvH2aI7CX8oMfmnoIgsmt3EkjhY953c9w73JdOv2xw9RJAbrZHFP0zACYyLa3qwMzGeSjUqLT8l7AhrDrXXyYs4t47IeXujp6klPmYC/s1600-h/Acadian+Pioneer+Village.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 375px; height: 253px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv0TyL6J4J7tGWilrP6jgonloxOfe3bhZ_-QC7RdvH2aI7CX8oMfmnoIgsmt3EkjhY953c9w73JdOv2xw9RJAbrZHFP0zACYyLa3qwMzGeSjUqLT8l7AhrDrXXyYs4t47IeXujp6klPmYC/s400/Acadian+Pioneer+Village.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445919314724373282" border="0" /></a><br />The Acadian Pioneer Village at Cape Egmont, 5 km (3 mi.) west of Mont Carmel on the Acadian Shore, is a recreation of an authentic early 19th c. village, with a church, village hall, store, school, a well and smithy. The houses have objets d'art and restored furniture of the period.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cedar Dunes Provincial Park</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDf6uWcWfUbf3KOlCCq-cEyIJFfmgBb96QtPt7oMYcRhPvlh6UDigIyera5IujnPd2iHlr9jKKo-cD2VyUdB07MhN1TYv1aETTlNhyxekzjNN4tzPVnbhbaZ_jdItiy5E-n4G9bzcnYk7J/s1600-h/Cedar+Dunes+Provincial+Park.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDf6uWcWfUbf3KOlCCq-cEyIJFfmgBb96QtPt7oMYcRhPvlh6UDigIyera5IujnPd2iHlr9jKKo-cD2VyUdB07MhN1TYv1aETTlNhyxekzjNN4tzPVnbhbaZ_jdItiy5E-n4G9bzcnYk7J/s400/Cedar+Dunes+Provincial+Park.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445920049919259858" border="0" /></a><br />North along the coast, at the island's westernmost point, the 2 km (1 mi.) white-sand beach of Cedar Dunes Provincial Park is overlooked by the West Point Lighthouse, an old wooden lighthouse from 1874 that had its own keeper until thirty years ago. It was restored and now contains a little museum a shop for craftwork and rooms for visitors.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Malpeque Bay</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWVFzl9vD8OOIR-OzH5KzHQdN-Z5xtILTVDTEYIoiVg6Uj2DPiB9aP35mJjC5A2wtpTXoKXw8OLSzGaLVqX_DMkvkGzR9uePkTNF9jFRM2pkTnsvQGyCyXd8WP01VYDxU4bSbdsVv3QSuk/s1600-h/Malpeque+bay.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWVFzl9vD8OOIR-OzH5KzHQdN-Z5xtILTVDTEYIoiVg6Uj2DPiB9aP35mJjC5A2wtpTXoKXw8OLSzGaLVqX_DMkvkGzR9uePkTNF9jFRM2pkTnsvQGyCyXd8WP01VYDxU4bSbdsVv3QSuk/s400/Malpeque+bay.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445920706472093090" border="0" /></a><br />Malpeque Bay is where Prince Edward Island's world-famous oysters have their main beds. It is the center of Canada's oyster-farming, yielding about 5 million oysters a year. In the west of Malpeque Bay numerous branches of the fishing industry have their bases.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Prince Edward Island National Park</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7s8uJz4gumLYaW_ICIk2E3lBTUxLH-Tm_wXa_b9Ykeggar_AuOsypVnCFfqn2FTYSvXOFpoAo90XQylxiUQC3avPLf94FwfVbRfDztvJJCxiPYY0m9P5f8X61Jgbv9LbvDgnpKLKqE7by/s1600-h/prince+edward+island+national+park.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7s8uJz4gumLYaW_ICIk2E3lBTUxLH-Tm_wXa_b9Ykeggar_AuOsypVnCFfqn2FTYSvXOFpoAo90XQylxiUQC3avPLf94FwfVbRfDztvJJCxiPYY0m9P5f8X61Jgbv9LbvDgnpKLKqE7by/s400/prince+edward+island+national+park.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445921159559174226" border="0" /></a><br />Take Highway 25 out of York, then turn right onto Highway 220 to Grand Tracadie, then left to Prince Edward Island National Park. This extends from Tracadie Bay in the east to Cavendish Bay in the west, a long line of lovely white-sand beaches. Over 200 species of birds can be seen here, including the superb blue heron. Despite the enormous influx of tourists in summer, the park has surprisingly managed to maintain its ecological balance.<br /><br />The landscape of Prince Edward Island National Park includes sand dunes, beaches, cliffs, forests, and wetlands. Although it is most visited during the summer months, the park is also open in winter and offers cross country ski trails.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wood Islands</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgne2i2W6En36QgNaFaJPu5n1h-D5PeSttBYBV544WWkhHfIjLxBXU-WAqYvkWN-gfPghvfhcRyjZL1VoOFqCWjBVWf3IeTdSYGrbaDHtMMq7RTSH03Hz-LBoPuJuokLa___NT3oqtIJUuu/s1600-h/wood+island.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgne2i2W6En36QgNaFaJPu5n1h-D5PeSttBYBV544WWkhHfIjLxBXU-WAqYvkWN-gfPghvfhcRyjZL1VoOFqCWjBVWf3IeTdSYGrbaDHtMMq7RTSH03Hz-LBoPuJuokLa___NT3oqtIJUuu/s400/wood+island.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445921534063610050" border="0" /></a><br />Wood Islands, on the south coast, has a ferry terminal with ferries to Caribou, Nova Scotia.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Transportations</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />By car</span><br /><br />Being an island, PEI has limited access by car.<br /><br />* The monumental Confederation Bridge almost a visitor attraction in and of itself (viewing stations on the New Brunswick side offer good photo opportunities), crosses the Northumberland Strait between New Brunswick and PEI. It's reached from the mainland on TCH Route 16 near Aulac, and stretches 13 kilometers across open water to the island. The CND $41.50 toll (2 axle vehicle) is collected on the PEI side when returning to the mainland.<br />* PEI Express Shuttle, +1-877- 877-1771, offers van service between PEI and Halifax. 3 days advance reservation is recommended.<br />* There are a number of car ferries into PEI.<br />o The Northumberland Ferries, +1 888- 249-7245,cross from Caribou, Nova Scotia to Woods Islands about once every hour and a half, from 6:30AM to 7:00PM ($15 per passenger or $68 per car). The ferries do not operate during the winter months.<br />o CTMA, +1 418 986-3278, runs ferries from Cap-aux-Meules on Îles-de-la-Madeleine, Quebec to Souris about once a day ($40 per passenger or $75 per car).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">By plane</span><br /><br />Prince Edward Island is served by a single airport located in Charlottetown. The following airlines operate passenger flights into the airport:<br /><br />* Air Canada/Air Canada Jazz (Halifax (Nova Scotia), Montreal, Toronto)<br />* Westjet (Toronto)<br />* Sunwing Vacations (Toronto)<br />* Delta Air Lines (Boston, Detroit)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">By ship</span><br />Throughout the summer months, cruise liners stop in Charlottetown for one day visits.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Get around</span><br /><br />Non-metered taxi service is available within the city limits of Charlottetown and Summerside, as well as in most large communities. Most taxi companies are willing to provide transportation to rural areas of the island as well but be prepared to pay a higher rate for this service.<br /><br />In 2005, the city of Charlottetown introduced a new public transit system that provides bus transporation at a cost of $2 to various locations around the city. Although the service does not extend very far beyond city limits it does provide fast, reliable transportation to most locations within them.<br /><br />In the summer cycling is popular. Although most roads do not have wide shoulders or designated bike lanes, drivers tend to be quite courtous to cyclists. The landscape consists mostly of rolling hills; there are few steep hills to climb. Additionally, the Confederation Trail stretches from one end of the island to the other. Built on a disused rail bed, the trail has low grades and is reserved for cyclists and pedestrians. MacQueen's Island Tours (based in Charlottetown), and Atlantic Canada CyclingQUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-53073491896591679192010-03-02T03:15:00.000-08:002010-03-02T07:34:45.928-08:00Bhaktapur "UNESCO City of Culture and Living Heritage"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQLo7DUbdY-jsSIkK4wBoN3t90Hbcf_R2iiyX_qTReA2KSm99oVd2tioMvc_gsj6UaN-whtJNrt8gacDaVg47axKqnhOP5qRzH8Kmjs0UlLcYXZG-RazWhwOZQPSsjPvnv1CW-oJi1t0-/s1600-h/Bhaktapur.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 370px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKQLo7DUbdY-jsSIkK4wBoN3t90Hbcf_R2iiyX_qTReA2KSm99oVd2tioMvc_gsj6UaN-whtJNrt8gacDaVg47axKqnhOP5qRzH8Kmjs0UlLcYXZG-RazWhwOZQPSsjPvnv1CW-oJi1t0-/s400/Bhaktapur.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444058387172259586" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><b>Bhaktapur</b> is known variously as “City of Culture", "Living Heritage", "Nepal's Cultural Gem", "An open museum" and a City of Devotees”. Bhaktapur is an ancient city and is renowned for its elegant art, fabulous culture, colorful festivals, traditional dances and indigenous lifestyle of Newari community. It is just 12 kilometers east of Kathmandu, capital of Nepal, but gives the feeling of prehistoric times given the ambiance of traditional homes, lifestyles and environment. The conch shaped historic city is spreading over just an area of 6.88 square kilometer at 1,401 meter altitude. The city was founded in 12th century by King Anand Dev Malla. Bhaktapur was the capital city of the Greater Malla Kingdom in the Kathmandu Valley till the 15th century AD. The many of Bhaktapur's greatest monuments were built by the then Malla rulers.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Durbar Square </span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjriUqCILtsnpuavpi5lq2TeVs5tR-f2AyIvkEXYM013KIgUjyaS1i_ERhSU93ANxlg1ANiS7stsWgr7VNFdpgq6awk3y3dPKsaZyUsDaoaqajs5ySvb5PIxtbMk33tnyuPNp8b2oQ5chca/s1600-h/Durbar+Square.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 366px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjriUqCILtsnpuavpi5lq2TeVs5tR-f2AyIvkEXYM013KIgUjyaS1i_ERhSU93ANxlg1ANiS7stsWgr7VNFdpgq6awk3y3dPKsaZyUsDaoaqajs5ySvb5PIxtbMk33tnyuPNp8b2oQ5chca/s400/Durbar+Square.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443994287674616162" border="0" /></a><br />As with the palaces of Kathmandu and Patan, Durbar Square in Bhaktapur is on the list of UNESCO world cultural heritage sites.<br /><br />The fortress-like palace, standing on the highest point of the plateau, probably dates back to the time of Yaksha Malla. The oldest part of the palace is thought to be Mul Chowk, built in the 14th c. as the abode of the goddess Taleju. She, according to legend, was brought to Bhaktapur from Simragaon 100 years earlier, being later rehoused in the new building. The Pashupati Mandir, based on the model of Deopatan (Patan), is also attributed to Yaksha Malla. The palace precinct was further extended during the time of Jagati Jyoti Malla (1613-37), as was Taumadhi Tole. The large Narayana<br />Pagoda dates from the reign of Jitamitra Malla (1673-96).<br /><br />Building reached a peak under Jitamitra Malla's successor Bhupatindra Malla (1696-1722) who enthusiastically undertook the filling in of the great gaps left by an earthquake in 1663. The Palace of the 55 Windows, Bhairava Chowk and Nagh Pokhari, the royal baths, were all built at this time. Under Bhupatindra the Durbar Square-Taumadhi Tole-Chupin Ghat area was enormously enhanced, providing a magnificent backcloth for the Bisket Jatra Festival.<br /><br />The Golden Gate (Sundhoka), Bhupatindra's Column and the Taleju Bell were all constructed by Bhupatindra's successor Ranjit Malla. The courtyard dedicated to the child-goddess Kumari was built by Jitamitra Malla and the two wings on the west side adjacent to the Golden Gate by Jagati Jyoti Malla. The western section of the palace dates from the reign of the Shahs. Although today only parts of the palace remain, the splendor of the Malla period is still evident, particularly in the perfection of the detail.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Durga and Bhairava</span><br />Long vanished are the palace wings west of the National Gallery. Of the one-time summerhouse" of the queens only the imposing gatekeepers, Durga and Bhairab, have survived. Carved in 1701 they look no less fearsome today. Durga, brandishing an array of weapons and symbols, needs only one of her eighteen arms to slay the demon. Bhairab has to be content with twelve arms, but her necklace of skulls is every bit as impressive as her companion's. The sculptor is said to have had his hands cut off after completing his work, to prevent his genius serving others.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mul Chowk / Kumari Chowk</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe4AuplLx7c1cxDdYNHpQ6oAf8UbqUQd2agAS018qOTZXJrnANQUrTQCtx6QzWkmTFYu14bbKsHmKvd2tfajDz2ArZ0NqU356zKj7UnxQyH-XJp2fJYDxAhpZwdzsjeoNeBgvrBNFg5WpX/s1600-h/Kumari+Chowk.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 273px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe4AuplLx7c1cxDdYNHpQ6oAf8UbqUQd2agAS018qOTZXJrnANQUrTQCtx6QzWkmTFYu14bbKsHmKvd2tfajDz2ArZ0NqU356zKj7UnxQyH-XJp2fJYDxAhpZwdzsjeoNeBgvrBNFg5WpX/s400/Kumari+Chowk.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443995391640436706" border="0" /></a><br />At one time the vast palace precinct is reputed to have comprised 99 courtyards. Six of these survive, though for security and religious reasons the majority are closed to visitors. From Sundhoka a path winds round Bhairava Chowk to a carved wooden entrance gate, the only access to Mul Chowk. This oldest and most central of the palace courts is dedicated to the goddess Taleju.<br /><br />With a little persuasion visitors may be allowed to look into the court, catching a glimpse of the main temple, to the left, together with statues of Ganga and Jamuna, even more ornate than their counterparts in Patan. On the far (west) side is a triple temple portal, the central opening giving access not to the devotional images but into Kumari Chowk. Both Mul Chowk and Kumari Chowk are considered pearls of Nepalese architecture to embellish which was one of the noblest obligations of the king. Viewed from the outside the buildings appear modest, revealing little of the splendors within.<br /><br />With their decline the abodes of the kings fell into disrepair; but the abodes of gods are preserved for as long as people believe in them. Here the elaborately carved roof struts, the murals and the bronze figures present an almost complete pantheon, serving to glorify the deity of the court and providing a unique setting for rituals and ceremonies.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">National Gallery</span><br />On the left of the Golden Gate there used to be a second building with low stories and heavily carved window frames and struts supporting its widely jutting roof. This was demolished in the mid 19th c. and replaced by the present hall. Only the portal with its decorative stone figures survives from Jitamitra Malla's time. The pair of lions were already there in 1697 when, as in Kathmandu, guardian gods were added in the form of statues of Hanuman and Narashima.<br /><br />The doorway is now the entrance to the Nepalese National Gallery, which contains a collection of more than 200 paintings from the 14th-20th c. Among items of particular note is the Yoga Purusha illustrating the chakras of the human body, a favorite subject for imitation by modern thangka painters. The priceless old thangkas on display highlight the poor quality of those sold in souvenir shops.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Nyatapola Mandir</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5jkk-L5fQEoX5Zrd4t-RxMY_VJf93MP7yBjcG02ZOJ5i3yum8xP6vP-pNik_BBZ9MmShaim3i8HaiO-65gkuIE4FVrOxmY9V0z9C9l2RqTwNd2gW5WcqBj-vsZ0LwQBFbjG2DfoMy05iN/s1600-h/Nyatapola+Mandir.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5jkk-L5fQEoX5Zrd4t-RxMY_VJf93MP7yBjcG02ZOJ5i3yum8xP6vP-pNik_BBZ9MmShaim3i8HaiO-65gkuIE4FVrOxmY9V0z9C9l2RqTwNd2gW5WcqBj-vsZ0LwQBFbjG2DfoMy05iN/s400/Nyatapola+Mandir.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443996109739031314" border="0" /></a><br />Since the name of the Tantric goddess remains unknown the temple is called Nyatapola (Five Storied), making it unique in the Kathmandu valley where temples are always named after their deities.<br /><br />Nyatapola Mandir is the tallest in the valley, rising to a height of 50 m (164 ft) on a five-tiered platform which further enhances its monumental effect. The foot of the stairway is flanked by the so-called Dvara Pallas, two legendary wrestlers Jayamel and Phattu, credited with the strength of ten men. Above them in turn come two elephants, two lions, two griffins and at the top the Tantric goddesses Baghini in the shape of a tiger and Simhini as a lion - a hierarchy of beings each ten times more powerful than the one below. Surpassing all in strength is the Tantric goddess of the temple on whose image only Brahmins can set eyes.<br /><br />The temple is distinguished not only by its size but also its perfect proportions and ornamental detail. The 20 columns of the veranda appear at once slender yet strong, all being beautifully carved, as are the door frames. Even more breathtaking is the carving on the 108 struts supporting the five roofs. The various forms of the Bhagawati Mahishamardini and other deities are portrayed with great artistry. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Bhairava Temple</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCcjzu2dC4FGzH8kNhnzAtbg2zL9BEny3IdBGV7qj2YHuSXXewzWJq-ymWy0yxYPweTGOlPmH2bzqYyQKc3obyihagj8rPLpnH6_vHwhlfkvyp6GXkQg4pXRTSXvtHpIHsTyLIr5_BFHyH/s1600-h/Bhairava+Temple.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCcjzu2dC4FGzH8kNhnzAtbg2zL9BEny3IdBGV7qj2YHuSXXewzWJq-ymWy0yxYPweTGOlPmH2bzqYyQKc3obyihagj8rPLpnH6_vHwhlfkvyp6GXkQg4pXRTSXvtHpIHsTyLIr5_BFHyH/s400/Bhairava+Temple.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443996464977490690" border="0" /></a><br />Unlike other temples, which are almost always square, the Bhairava Temple in Taumadhi Tole has the typical rectangular plan of a Bhairava or Bhimsen shrine. These are built in the style of a house, as is clearly seen from the Akasha Bhairava Mandir in Kathmandu. The worship room is accordingly not on the ground floor.<br /><br />The history of the Kasi Biswanath Mandir can be traced back to the 16th c. The original single-story building was enlarged by Bhupatindra Malla in 1717. After the 1934 earthquake it was completely rebuilt in the traditional style incorporating some of the old temple, a third story being added at the same time.<br /><br />Access to the temple is via a small shrine dedicated to Bhairava's bearer Betal. Every year Betal accompanies the god in the Bisket Jatra Festival and is accorded a brief moment of adoration. Thereafter he remains bound face-downwards to the beams of his temple, being considered an evil spirit who brings ill fortune.<br /><br />The 56 carved roof struts portray Bhagmati and the mother deities. In contrast to the lower roofs which are tiled, the upper is gilded and crowned by seven magnificent toranas (doors surrounded by figural decoration). Bhairava's image is located on the first floor, from where the god can look out of five gilded windows onto the square. The god's mask also appears at a window between the middle and lower roofs. During the Bisket Jatra Festival Bhairava is borne through the streets in a chariot procession.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Banepa - Surroundings</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dhulikhel<br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWF9PLfx-BE7kdItEZxEkfN2oWe05PkkCxZ2X-5D54fC_n2M4Yah4ZZvqL6dijlGvPoA_T8tBlr-e54pVqMgGp8n99yBipPOehnC2oLc06mPTl2ucpLXiXfKMMrXRbRUPKHisXElFimU8V/s1600-h/Dhulikhel.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 272px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWF9PLfx-BE7kdItEZxEkfN2oWe05PkkCxZ2X-5D54fC_n2M4Yah4ZZvqL6dijlGvPoA_T8tBlr-e54pVqMgGp8n99yBipPOehnC2oLc06mPTl2ucpLXiXfKMMrXRbRUPKHisXElFimU8V/s400/Dhulikhel.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443997073771302098" border="0" /></a><br />The little town of Dhulikhel (pop. 10,000) lies on a pass to the east of the Banepa Valley at a height of 1440 m (4726 ft) with a magnificent view of the Himalayas. The town has benefited for hundreds of years from being on the trade route between the Kathmandu Valley and Tibet.<br /><br />Dhulikhel's public buildings, including the high school, post office and prison, lie on the road running south-east. The old village nucleus is found in the opposite direction, on a hill. In the main square are the three-storied Harasiddhi Temple and a tiled shrine dedicated to Vishnu, its front graced by two contrasting figures of Garuda. Temples to Krishna and Bhagwati are found in the western part of the town. From the three-storied Bhagwati pagoda there is a splendid view of the Banepa Valley. Dhulikhel's Shiva Temple occupies a delightful position at the foot of a small ravine. A stream flows through the precinct which also contains a curious and most varied collection of statues and images. The best view of the Himalayas is obtained from a little shrine dedicated to Kali on the ridge south of the town. The roughly half hour walk can be continued south to Namobuddha, a Buddhist pilgrimage site.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Varja Dhatu Stupa</span><br />For Tamang Buddhists the north stupa is one of their most important shrines. According to legend a prince came across a tigress dying from starvation and, filled with compassion, sacrificed himself so she could eat. The stupa is said to hold the remains of the prince who was transformed into a Buddha. The place where this happened is decorated with colored prayer flags. The legend is inscribed on a small stone plaque.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Panauti</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-r7ZtuSEjYlDz8hTlM5L3HCKCkVyl2bTetNKneqkfTQsFk1xFNGP10U4qnCAxGwX5LcmtkO9q-cSIZbCsxV37Z7P3fJDP5bzYAXmRJFX4qN_OmHFyxAFN7D8bx36xfot0AkoZ0DO2QHFj/s1600-h/Panauti+nepal.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-r7ZtuSEjYlDz8hTlM5L3HCKCkVyl2bTetNKneqkfTQsFk1xFNGP10U4qnCAxGwX5LcmtkO9q-cSIZbCsxV37Z7P3fJDP5bzYAXmRJFX4qN_OmHFyxAFN7D8bx36xfot0AkoZ0DO2QHFj/s400/Panauti+nepal.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444056641266497554" border="0" /></a><br />This delightful small town (pop. 23,000) near Banepa remains relatively untouched by the changes taking place elsewhere in the Banepa Valley. Large and prestigious temples are the only reminders of past glories when Panauti enjoyed a prime position on two trade routes and even boasted a palace. Situated at the confluence of the Rivers Rosi and Punyamati, the town occupies a sacred site. A third river, called Lilamati, visible only to the wise, is said to flow into the others from the Gorakhnath Shrine on the hill above the town.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Changunarayan / Changu Narayan Temple</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Changu Narayan</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJVq8uJu5ivmtn3etcEjpu5k8Fs2tO-O7zPvwp2-le6ZR4PkQwx3J0aTkn-4ARzOQDCkqy1OQD_yeJPdyHmacAvaYXnGXt99CS2z6BeFhBtOd7HPK26L0SvT5tfGnGuVSAlgqcv_JeHIJ/s1600-h/ChanguNarayan.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJVq8uJu5ivmtn3etcEjpu5k8Fs2tO-O7zPvwp2-le6ZR4PkQwx3J0aTkn-4ARzOQDCkqy1OQD_yeJPdyHmacAvaYXnGXt99CS2z6BeFhBtOd7HPK26L0SvT5tfGnGuVSAlgqcv_JeHIJ/s400/ChanguNarayan.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444057102614460690" border="0" /></a><br />The temple of Changu Narayan lies 8 km (5 mi.) north of Bhaktapur. Perched on the end of a ridge extending from Nagarkot, its striking and scenically beautiful setting adds further enchantment to this important shrine.<br /><br />The temple complex of Changu Narayan is one of the principal sights of Nepal and is on the UNESCO list of protected world cultural heritage sites.<br /><br />Changu Narayan is probably the oldest temple in the whole Kathmandu Valley. Its principal image was installed in the 4th c., at about the same time as the Shiva lingam in Pashupatinath. Repeatedly destroyed by fire and earthquake, the shrine was on each occasion rebuilt larger and more richly decorated than before. The present, classically proportioned pagoda, dating from 1702, is a masterpiece of form and decoration. The courtyard boasts an almost unparalleled collection of superb Nepalese wood- carving, metal-work and sculpture. Even as recently as the turn of the century the court was out-of-bounds to non-Hindus. In 1901 the French historian Sylvain Lévi was forced to make notes standing at the entrance while his Nepalese assistant described the scene to him.<br /><br />The struts on the pagoda's lower roof are carved with the ten incarnations of Vishnu. The woodwork has been painted in the course of the present century, which, while tending to obscure the fine detail of the carving, nevertheless harmonizes with the overall opulence of the decoration. The result is a feast of materials and hues.<br /><br />In addition to the main temple the courtyard contains shrines to Krishna and Shiva, the Ashta Matrika shrine, and a number of exceptionally fine sculptures.<br /><br />In the south-west corner are three different portrayals of Vishnu. As Vishnu Vikranta he is the dwarf transformed into a giant, striding across the universe in only three steps. As the lion-headed Vishnu Narasingha he slays a demon with his bare hands.<br /><br />The third relief, of Vishnu Vishvarupa, or Vishnu the All-in-one, is the most fascinating. Dating from the 8th c. it is divided horizontally into zones symbolizing the several levels of the universe over which the god presides. With his ten heads and ten arms, and born aloft by Garuda, he forms a cosmic column in the center of the universe, at the base of which the Sleeping Vishnu reclines on the primeval ocean. Various deities, including Shiva holding a rosary, trident, pot and World Seed, are gathered on either side.<br /><br />A stone column by the west front of the temple bears the earliest inscription to be found in the Kathmandu Valley. Engraved in 464 it records the victory of King Manadeva over the "barbarians" from the north and south.<br /><br />The nearby figure of Garuda is thought by archaeologists to have come from the column. The features of Vishnu's bearer-companion are probably those of the King, who considered himself the god's representative on Earth.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Surya Vinayaka</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFn3JDb5acKJTE3D7HyBC5gCTUPxx-zxljbubCE7XvqL8mBdwmGgNjwWGh1mdr14FmgtR22-ryIQqE_7nF_SigFvRhbTFJhDZp8Lb07lrEoU-YLq8zP5bG6Z1te6kU8P28BCO64Vu7mqCa/s1600-h/Surya+Vinayak.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFn3JDb5acKJTE3D7HyBC5gCTUPxx-zxljbubCE7XvqL8mBdwmGgNjwWGh1mdr14FmgtR22-ryIQqE_7nF_SigFvRhbTFJhDZp8Lb07lrEoU-YLq8zP5bG6Z1te6kU8P28BCO64Vu7mqCa/s400/Surya+Vinayak.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444058001809419378" border="0" /></a><br />About a kilometer from Bhaktapur, on the south side of the Hanumante river, stands the most important of four shrines to Ganesh in the Kathmandu Valley. Situated on the eastern side of a wooded hill the shikhara-style temple is the first of the four to feel the rays of the rising sun. It is here therefore that Ganesh first renews his acquaintance with the sun god Surya who, in a kind of inversion of ritual, displays by his daily "round" of the valley his special regard for this particular shrine.<br /><br />In front of the 17th c. temple stands a column bearing Ganesh's attribute the rat, in unusually large and realistic form. The god promises help to children slow in learning to speak and on Tuesdays in particular he is brought gifts of ladoo, his favorite food, to seek his favor. On the hill there is a little shrine dedicated to Parvati, the mother of Ganesh. From here there is a good view of the valley.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Transportations<br /><br />Get In<br /></span><p>If you are not arriving as part of a tour group, you may take mini bus (bound for Kamal Binayak stop in Bhaktapur) or big bus (bound for Chyamasingha stop in Bhaktapur) from Bus Stop near Bhadrakali. You can save time by taking Express Bus (this does not stop in between except in Maitighar and Sallaghari) from Bagbazar in Kathmandu. Recently, micro buses also started service of suttling between Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, which are pretty fast. </p><p>For those who haven't experienced a public bus in South Asia, it will be a way to (literally!) rub shoulders with locals. In either case the ride takes about 40-60 minutes and drops you off just outside of town. The cost of the fare from Kathmandu to Bhaktapur is approximately 35 NRS (Sept 2009) by bus for local people. Average taxi fee from Thamel to Bhaktapur (one way) costs about 800-1000 NRS for the 16 km drive. You can easily hail a taxi or pick up a return bus to either Patan or Kathmandu just outside of the first main gate that leads into the city. </p><span style="font-weight: bold;">Get Around</span><br /><br />Once in Bhaktapur, walking is really the only way to experience the quiet, dusty lanes squares. There are no rickshaws, tuk-tuks, or taxis allowed inside the city-- an inconvenience more than made up for by the quiet and clean air.QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-30784863176711380192010-02-24T09:03:00.000-08:002010-02-24T09:46:20.714-08:00Vancouver "best cities to live in and host of the 2010 Winter Olympics"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_APtDXOW04iORCT84cu812sGgEK4SI_Qb9WfcHZz-u8jZQbocJ2zwWyyND6RIzt9Nx-ZL1NIAfTfkKbj8v3I4p3Vfm8aYAn_pQ7034-G8DMctS-S7_ihpUOiMFooxD5ZJqd16XSC95bL/s1600-h/Vancouver.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_APtDXOW04iORCT84cu812sGgEK4SI_Qb9WfcHZz-u8jZQbocJ2zwWyyND6RIzt9Nx-ZL1NIAfTfkKbj8v3I4p3Vfm8aYAn_pQ7034-G8DMctS-S7_ihpUOiMFooxD5ZJqd16XSC95bL/s400/Vancouver.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441867624459850626" border="0" /></a><br /><p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Vancouver</b> is the largest metropolitan area in Western Canada, and third largest in Canada, with a population of 2.6 million. Located at the southwestern corner of the coastal province of British Columbia, it is well known for its majestic natural beauty, as it is nestled between the Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. It is frequently ranked as one of the "best cities to live in" and is certainly a beautiful destination to visit. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Vancouver is the host of the 2010 Winter Olympics. </span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Stanley Park</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV9BdEUIyEAsFEFrPDuknnt4E4Iii_-HDYKA7x52NhHTtjyYcFXuvRo-hJ02CAxaV1kB_HD8E5yYhKqv0LlnvQXQBSBmf8epYgo58KjEG_5WPxyNsfooA7ANMckT1GWpHwbhFMYDZGVqVw/s1600-h/Stanley+Park.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV9BdEUIyEAsFEFrPDuknnt4E4Iii_-HDYKA7x52NhHTtjyYcFXuvRo-hJ02CAxaV1kB_HD8E5yYhKqv0LlnvQXQBSBmf8epYgo58KjEG_5WPxyNsfooA7ANMckT1GWpHwbhFMYDZGVqVw/s400/Stanley+Park.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441860032415274146" border="0" /></a><br />Step aboard one of our old-fashioned horse-drawn vehicles and meander in comfort through the natural beauty of Stanley Park, Vancouver’s #1 attraction. Relax to the gentle clip clop of the horses’ hooves and take in the fresh scent of cedar and the sea as a professional guide fully narrates your one-hour tour featuring Deadman’s Island, Vancouver’s harbour, the Lions Gate Bridge, a coastal Red-Cedar forest and the Rose Garden, with stops at the famous Totem Poles, Girl in a Wet Suit Statue, and S.S. Empress of Japan Figurehead. Horse-drawn tours are wheelchair accessible, covered, and depart every 20-30 minutes, daily, rain or shine. You can take a bus tour anytime, but how often do you get a chance to see the sights by horse-drawn carriage?<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Vancouver Aquarium In Stanley Park</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbNixIJmGLDlzIEb02W5k2dglhoRzx18RnEB2k-sTy1iFX45eRortT80McHkx7QF2xCke-QGDDzHH-toJ7YZTbVyvOnv0I_qLfdABmph_slX6KEM0dEygenpP4o95C4OlC_IYCgdliFLIm/s1600-h/Vancouver+Aquarium.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbNixIJmGLDlzIEb02W5k2dglhoRzx18RnEB2k-sTy1iFX45eRortT80McHkx7QF2xCke-QGDDzHH-toJ7YZTbVyvOnv0I_qLfdABmph_slX6KEM0dEygenpP4o95C4OlC_IYCgdliFLIm/s400/Vancouver+Aquarium.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441859100387780674" border="0" /></a><br />The Vancouver Aquarium is home to over 70,000 fascinating creatures from the Arctic to the Amazon. Be sure to catch daily beluga whale, dolphin and sea otter shows, and for an unforgettable extra try a hands-on animal encounter. Check out the interactive exhibits in the expanded children’s area, and don’t miss the amazing new frog exhibit. Relax over lunch at the Upstream Café and be sure to visit the unique Gift Shop.<br /><br />Immerse yourself in our new 4D Experience theatre, which combines the high-definition excitement of a 3-D film with thrilling sensory effects! Now open: The engaging new Canada’s Arctic exhibit, connecting you to the animals, stories and people of Canada’s majestic Arctic.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Grouse Mountain</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIvDIvyvmmEOomOXHTUcfTSkToLPjzCAxCdvJ5nM7qz-NJtHAkTnq4IfA6iBtL82A5I49kEKrTouNzo0eO0grMDoq4kaZucuBWkJ3-TpXaqIAgI-OHynl8h-9DKh39IQUJ1feubMyDBHZz/s1600-h/Grouse+Mountain.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIvDIvyvmmEOomOXHTUcfTSkToLPjzCAxCdvJ5nM7qz-NJtHAkTnq4IfA6iBtL82A5I49kEKrTouNzo0eO0grMDoq4kaZucuBWkJ3-TpXaqIAgI-OHynl8h-9DKh39IQUJ1feubMyDBHZz/s400/Grouse+Mountain.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441857721093685746" border="0" /></a><br />Situated only 15 minutes from the downtown core of Vancouver, Grouse Mountain is truly the marriage of wilderness and civilization. Experience the majesty of two grizzly bears in a 5-acre wildlife refuge, a rush of adrenaline as you soar high above the valley below on an Air Grouse Mountain Zipline, or the thrill of watching competing lumberjacks vie for top spot in a daring competition. Wind down your day in a stunning restaurant venue located in the Peak Chalet and overlooking the city, ranging from the fine dining Observatory to the more casual Altitudes Bistro. Whatever your adventure, don’t forget your camera!<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Capilano Suspension Bridge</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr2Gk1RMYSHWFYF4Z8IVH4knymYVEUUyeFWTc-mKLGOcEGA60VXiW6Z63YwRPOPzcBE6MMZPxpGicaOuRvp9czIUWH2mzb2Er6cwWhZWQr36gYTGFDGnPPBRKUXkYrthO0uhFAvOIzjSvA/s1600-h/Capilano+Suspension+Bridge.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr2Gk1RMYSHWFYF4Z8IVH4knymYVEUUyeFWTc-mKLGOcEGA60VXiW6Z63YwRPOPzcBE6MMZPxpGicaOuRvp9czIUWH2mzb2Er6cwWhZWQr36gYTGFDGnPPBRKUXkYrthO0uhFAvOIzjSvA/s400/Capilano+Suspension+Bridge.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441858379409578994" border="0" /></a><br />One of Vancouver’s most iconic and thrilling sites Capilano Suspension Bridge is breathtakingly suspended 230 feet above and 450 feet across Capilano River. But crossing the bridge isn’t the only excitement you can expect. Cross over to towering evergreens, serene trails and the award winning attraction, Treetops Adventure. Seven suspension bridges, some reaching as high as 100 feet, take you high above the forest floor for a thrilling encounter with the heart of the forest.<br /><br />Guided eco-walks, a First Nations cultural experience and voices from the past at the Story Centre mingle with the sounds of live seasonal performances. Unmatched shopping at the Trading Post and West Coast cuisine round out this entertaining West Coast experience.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Harbour Cruises &Events</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />Dining, Sightseeing and Special Events<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR87eDc9wOjtxCBcwO7TUEE-FNCzrwTWxB8qXlu5DxiJJL5Iab1jAFz4wLVfEOKQniA1sVHnysggpgzVXhu_uBoypRRhyWRT-S3nKZkgn366KYJCsE5tORvo23O4ob68GCGnCmgceoZtFV/s1600-h/Harbour+Cruises+%26Events.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 173px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR87eDc9wOjtxCBcwO7TUEE-FNCzrwTWxB8qXlu5DxiJJL5Iab1jAFz4wLVfEOKQniA1sVHnysggpgzVXhu_uBoypRRhyWRT-S3nKZkgn366KYJCsE5tORvo23O4ob68GCGnCmgceoZtFV/s400/Harbour+Cruises+%26Events.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441860525968445762" border="0" /></a><br />Harbour Cruises &Events, Vancouver’s leading boat sightseeing company, provides unparalleled views of Vancouver and offers a unique and delightful way to experience the city. Harbour Cruises Ltd. is the only boat sightseeing company in Vancouver to offer regularly scheduled daily and nightly public cruises. They include daily tours of the Vancouver Harbour, four times daily during the summer; nightly Sunset Dinner Cruises which includes a West Coast-themed dinner; and a luncheon cruise through the calm blue waters of the Indian Arm. Guests will cruise onboard one of our three distinct vessels from Vancouver’s only authentic paddlewheel, the MPV Constitution, to the MV Harbour Princess to the newly refurbished MV Britannia where tour guides will provide live commentary as we pass through the waterways surrounding Vancouver.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Vancouver Lookout<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmqsPV4laP40qt93sG0sORDH44uEhEJ3WyEx3USVQVJKJctJZmnUwJDG2j8wFoaV6j5QNqm7WlcCayBnRvxPxsbv51A05bi8VdSf3A2qssUaalTKViEPkiBIZH9kN5tW-s6S2rJfw_ky2/s1600-h/Vancouver+Lookout.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmqsPV4laP40qt93sG0sORDH44uEhEJ3WyEx3USVQVJKJctJZmnUwJDG2j8wFoaV6j5QNqm7WlcCayBnRvxPxsbv51A05bi8VdSf3A2qssUaalTKViEPkiBIZH9kN5tW-s6S2rJfw_ky2/s400/Vancouver+Lookout.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441861191607525602" border="0" /></a><br /></span><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Vancouver Lookout the <strong>“Best First Stop”</strong> during your visit to Vancouver.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Come see the spectacular 360-degree view of cosmopolitan Vancouver, the majestic North Shore Mountains and perhaps even Vancouver Island. Journey fifty storeys above street level in a glass elevator in less than 50 seconds. This elevating experience will get you ready to visit the rest of the must-see attractions. Our knowledgeable staff are happy to guide you around the deck and provide you with a 360-degree city tour. Admissionticket(s) valid throughout the day and evening, enjoy the view by day and by night. Come and enjoy the night lights!</span></p><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >The Vancouver Art Gallery </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqBbrZdh9d2HLOgKADBEiIPBOZE6jQtbjqGUxAFb_E0E-KR0kI_gcVLw-nMvF-jt7aO90Wl1s9AaHdFO0J1gmNMKFIBxrPZ2oRmcEUtUPeuwUa6zEGKT6BLv1GCBtCgpwKV68buFPY3Ue7/s1600-h/The+Vancouver+Art+Gallery.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 340px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqBbrZdh9d2HLOgKADBEiIPBOZE6jQtbjqGUxAFb_E0E-KR0kI_gcVLw-nMvF-jt7aO90Wl1s9AaHdFO0J1gmNMKFIBxrPZ2oRmcEUtUPeuwUa6zEGKT6BLv1GCBtCgpwKV68buFPY3Ue7/s400/The+Vancouver+Art+Gallery.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441861691031069794" border="0" /></a><br />A day in Canada’s most beautiful city would be incomplete without a visit to the Vancouver Art Gallery. This internationally acclaimed art museum offers the Vancouver’s top cultural experience in a stunning heritage building. The Gallery presents ever-changing world-class exhibitions, from historic masters to today’s most internationally acclaimed contemporary artists. It also houses the most significant collection of paintings by beloved British Columbia artist Emily Carr. Weekends at the Gallery are not to be missed, with artful family fun and free activities for young visitors. </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br /><br />Dr. Sun Yat-Sen</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />Classical Chinese Garden<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOFXS8itNdgaUin8ONJQRANrAFtfd-I2HN81yZPIOKgDKbe20IOVNtxDXQJSS4aHlC9NZ9dH3Do7KTlBNXG9vNU_vrWlpBe3HBdiM_wJSxz0nILL12U89gi0u_24Pwbf-nCJ1CpBTKs8P/s1600-h/Dr.+Sun+Yat-Sen.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOFXS8itNdgaUin8ONJQRANrAFtfd-I2HN81yZPIOKgDKbe20IOVNtxDXQJSS4aHlC9NZ9dH3Do7KTlBNXG9vNU_vrWlpBe3HBdiM_wJSxz0nILL12U89gi0u_24Pwbf-nCJ1CpBTKs8P/s400/Dr.+Sun+Yat-Sen.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441862489178475922" border="0" /></a><br />Visit the only Ming Dynasty-style Chinese garden built outside of China in 400 years. A free guided tour unravels the many layered philosophy that inspired the gardens intricate and authentic design. Savour the beauty, balance and calm over a cup of complimentary Chinese tea. Hunt for turtles basking in the sun and watch the brilliant coloured koi swim lazily through the jade green pond! The Garden is always filled with life, offering year round inspiration and enchantment. Whether the sun is shining or the rain is falling the Garden is the perfect place to visit year-round, with covered walkways and beautiful vistas. The Garden is wheelchair accessible and family friendly.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >TELUS World of Science<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiku7fj11xuxeaAvbMpxgQsoQO-IMc88jsSXZxRPl8SMVgfrolLbAVlLL9KfwTBc0UFHj-NRqi6LqlMNho3bxVD9IgoKfMYWJE4EeHWIDR7TqoZel8qplBg2DfTE9CFMfAXkHIGtoxWf-KH/s1600-h/Science_World.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiku7fj11xuxeaAvbMpxgQsoQO-IMc88jsSXZxRPl8SMVgfrolLbAVlLL9KfwTBc0UFHj-NRqi6LqlMNho3bxVD9IgoKfMYWJE4EeHWIDR7TqoZel8qplBg2DfTE9CFMfAXkHIGtoxWf-KH/s400/Science_World.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441862940810144610" border="0" /></a><br />Science World at TELUS World of Science. Ignite your mind and discover the wonders of science. Popular, hands-on interactive displays, inspirational feature exhibitions, jaw-dropping science demonstrations on Centre Stage, immersive films in the domed OMNIMAX® Theatre and awesome shows in the Science Theatre. It’s sure to be an unforgettable day of exploration as you meet STAN, our life-sized T-Rex, freeze your shadow in the shadow room and make your own inventions in Contraption Corner. There’s even a special mesmerizing area just for kids 2-6-years-old to enjoy. Fun for all ages, Science World is sure to jump-start your imagination. Just minutes from downtown and right at the Main Street/Science World SkyTrain Station. Science World-we can explain.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Burnaby Village</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7eoUhErSK3VvZ_9-7ibNohN-5iYuA7aZc9DbX83BO0pNwT7wSWOdev-AHjwM9580bIWgMbqduWjr7tPiQFA5RawhRRyZq5zfWxu3MT2pUIoLDaLfmClrWO_N-X7EDgdkiqrtuQKqPsWh8/s1600-h/burnaby+village.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7eoUhErSK3VvZ_9-7ibNohN-5iYuA7aZc9DbX83BO0pNwT7wSWOdev-AHjwM9580bIWgMbqduWjr7tPiQFA5RawhRRyZq5zfWxu3MT2pUIoLDaLfmClrWO_N-X7EDgdkiqrtuQKqPsWh8/s400/burnaby+village.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441863782953604706" border="0" /></a><br />Transport yourself - stroll down the streets of our 1920s B.C. Electric Railway tram stop community. Our village is a combination of heritage and replica buildings on a 10-acre site. Period costumed townsfolk welcome visitors and give demonstrations in the homes, businesses and shops. Popular stops include a chat with the blacksmith, a demonstration in the print shop, a wander through the garden at the farmhouse and a visit with the clerk at the General Store. Be sure to take in the elegance of the Interurban #1223. An exciting must for every visitor is a whirl on the historic 1912 CW Parker Carousel. Rides are accompanied by music from a Wurlitzer Band Organ. Amenities include picnic tables, a gift shop, and an ice-cream parlour which offers a menu for light meals and snacks.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Minter Gardens </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhahKMHFzi1r6p1vUeDPR1M6Rpo5C9aytp46nzXIlw8-fCdHNhR5LuBJngeCatyWoV_gLRSka3Uotqc3nZ-s-ViYDZP1zAw0oV9Sec7DMG24gpET9qJ16Aqv6K5D3AXVorZvSKZ3lMGqcGd/s1600-h/Minter+Gardens+vancouver.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhahKMHFzi1r6p1vUeDPR1M6Rpo5C9aytp46nzXIlw8-fCdHNhR5LuBJngeCatyWoV_gLRSka3Uotqc3nZ-s-ViYDZP1zAw0oV9Sec7DMG24gpET9qJ16Aqv6K5D3AXVorZvSKZ3lMGqcGd/s400/Minter+Gardens+vancouver.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441864926851413346" border="0" /></a><br />Set against a magnificent mountain backdrop is a 32 acre floral tapestry of colour, sound and fragrance. Discover charming features around every bend as you stroll through 11 themed gardens, pass by rushing waterfalls, feel the mist of the stunning ‘Waterwall’ or recapture your youth in the Children’s Garden. Be sure to visit one of our fabulous restaurants; enjoy a meal in the Envision Conservatory or a delectable brunch in The Trillium. Stop by our Gift and Plant Shop for a special memento or savour a treat from ‘Scrumptious’ sweet shop. As the garden evolves with each season, one visit is never enough!<br /><br /></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Hell’s Gate Airtram </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTb2hDJh4D7j6C-jpGvSLbdT6PlNVRyWI7MZoFYgm8zNS82s948jG4c9cnc_3TBj0KV5HuqO8RLcNftj4xOu5FYpDe5kvY6ICWblADa1TbvMwL-EE_zcyHwjeQaNDE3fuM1ee1ucYUTFxd/s1600-h/Hell%E2%80%99s+Gate+Airtram.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTb2hDJh4D7j6C-jpGvSLbdT6PlNVRyWI7MZoFYgm8zNS82s948jG4c9cnc_3TBj0KV5HuqO8RLcNftj4xOu5FYpDe5kvY6ICWblADa1TbvMwL-EE_zcyHwjeQaNDE3fuM1ee1ucYUTFxd/s400/Hell%E2%80%99s+Gate+Airtram.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441865402796489586" border="0" /></a><br />Drive the Scenic Fraser Canyon with its’ seven mountain tunnels through the historic heart of British Columbia and relive the biggest ‘rush’ on the Gold Rush Trail. A location so unique the ‘afterlife’ have come back to use it as a playground. Early explorers refer to it as “a place where no human being should venture”, and man & nature battle here for supremacy. You can see this place for yourself as you cross over the narrowest part of the Fraser River (with twice the flow of Niagara Falls!) and exchange mountain ranges aboard one of the only descending gondolas in North America. Facilities include: Gold Panning, Education Center, Suspension Bridge, Observation Decks, Simon’s Wall, Gold Panner Gift Shop, Fudge Factory & Simon’s Café.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Get around</span><br /></span><h2><span class="mw-headline"></span></h2> <p>Vancouver is one of the few major cities in North America without a freeway leading directly into the downtown core (freeway proposals in the 1960's and 1970's were defeated by community opposition). As a result, development has taken a different course than in most other major North American cities resulting in a relatively high use of transit and cycling, a dense, walkable core and a development model that is studied and emulated elsewhere. </p><span style="font-weight: bold;">By Public Transit</span><br /><p>Vancouver's public transit is run by the regional transportation authority, <b>TransLink</b> as an integrated system of buses, rapid transit (SkyTrain) and passenger ferry (SeaBus) . The transit system connects Vancouver with its neighboring municipalities, stretching as far north as Lions Bay, south to the U.S. border and east to Langley and Maple Ridge. </p><p>Adult <b>fares</b> for travel within the city of Vancouver cost $2.50. Travel from Vancouver to nearby places like North Vancouver, Burnaby and Richmond costs a little bit more -- $3.75-$5 -- depending on the time of day and number of transit zones you cross. Travel on weekends and weekdays after 6:30PM is always $2.50 regardless of the destination. The ticket you receive is valid for 1.5 hours from the time of purchase and can be used to transfer to any bus, SkyTrain or the SeaBus during that time. TransLink's website and customer information line (+1 604-953-3333) both offer complete <b>trip planning</b>. A <b>regional system map</b> is widely available at convenience stores and on TransLink's website. </p><p>A more convenient option for the traveler may be the <b>Daypass</b>, which offers unlimited travel for a single day at the cost of $9. It is available from fare machines at SkyTrain stations. Books of 10 <b>prepaid tickets</b> (FareSaver tickets) are available at a discount from many convenience stores. <b>Concession fares</b> are available for Vancouver grade-school students and BC seniors and cost between $1.75-$3.50. If you're a student or a senior you must be carrying a TransLink GoCard or BC Gold CareCard to receive the reduced concession fare. <b>Monthly passes</b> are also available, which can cost $73-136, depending on how many zones they cover. </p><p>The <b>bus</b> service covers the widest area and travels along most major streets in the city. Passengers must either buy a ticket or present their ticket immediately upon entering a TransLink bus. Buses accept coins only and will not give change. Tickets can also be purchased from vending machines in SkyTrain stations that accept coins, bills, debit and credit cards. In addition, several bus rapid transit lines named <b>B Lines</b> crisscross the city. </p><p><b>SkyTrain</b> is the mostly elevated rapid transit system that connects Vancouver's downtown with some of its southern and eastern suburbs. The Expo line runs out through Burnaby and New Westminster to King George station in Surrey. The Millennium line follows the Expo line to New Westminster and then loops back through Burnaby and into Vancouver again ending at VCC/Clark. The new (2009) Canada Line connects downtown with Richmond and Vancouver Airport. Notable SkyTrain stations in Vancouver include: </p> <ul><li> <b>Broadway/Commercial Drive</b> - Accesses the restaurants of Commercial Dr in East Vancouver<a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Vancouver/East_Van" title="Vancouver/East Van"></a> </li><li> <b>Burrard</b> and <b>Granville</b> - Most convenient for accessing the shopping areas in the central business district<a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Vancouver/CBD-Yaletown" title="Vancouver/CBD-Yaletown"></a> </li><li> <b>Waterfront Station</b> - Meeting point of the SkyTrain, SeaBus, numerous commuter and rapid bus routes and the commuter rail West Coast Express. It is also at the entrance to Gastown and is right next to the Canada Place Convention Centre/Cruise Ship Terminal facilities. </li></ul> <p>The <b>SeaBus</b> is a passenger ferry that connects Waterfront Station in downtown Vancouver to Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver. It generally runs every 15 min except in the evening and on Sundays. The exact schedule is available on TransLink's website. </p><p>Purchasing tickets for the SkyTrain and the SeaBus operates on the <b>honor system</b>, with ticket checks occuring at random, often rare times. It is not difficult to ride without paying, especially during rush hour, but those who do so ride at their own risk. If caught, the passenger has to pay a fine of $173. Tickets are easily available through vending machines at SkyTrain stations and either SeaBus terminal. </p><p>SkyTrain and SeaBus service ends before last call at night clubs and bars, so if you'll be partying downtown, be sure you figure out a ride home. </p><br /><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="mw-headline">By ferry across False Creek</span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">A quick trip across on a cute little-boat-that-could ferry can be the most fun, traffic-free, and convenient way to get between various points on False Creek: </span></p> <ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Maritime Museum in Vanier Park on the south shore, </span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Aquatic Centre at Sunset Beach on the north shore, </span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Hornby St on the north shore, </span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Granville Island and its famous Public Market on the south shore, </span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Yaletown/Davie St. on the north shore, </span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Stamp's Landing/Monk's and Spyglass Place on the south shore, </span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Plaza of Nations and Edgewater Casino on the north shore, and </span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Science World, the geodesic dome at the east end of False Creek. </span></li></ul> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Service is offered by Granville Island Ferries with little blue boats and by Aquabus with little rainbow boats. The two ferries run slightly different routes, and their docks on Granville Island are on either side of the Public Market. Current prices for adults start at $3 for short routes to $6 for long routes. </span></p><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="mw-headline">By car</span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Vancouver's <b>road network</b> is generally a grid system with a "Street" running north-south and an "Avenue" running east-west. Arterial roads follow the grid fairly well (although not perfectly), but side streets frequently disappear for blocks at a time and then reappear. Most of the "Avenues" are numbered and they always use East or West to designate whether it is on the East side or the West side of Ontario Street. Some of the major avenues use names rather than numbers (Broadway would be 9th Ave, King Edward Ave would be 25th Ave). </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Downtown Vancouver has its own grid system and doesn't follow the street/avenue format of the rest of the city. It is also surrounded by water on three sides, so most of the ways in and out require you to cross a bridge. This can cause traffic congestion, particularly at peak times (morning and evening commutes, sunny weekend afternoons, major sporting events), so factor that into any driving plans, or avoid if possible. </span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"></span><p><span style="font-size:100%;">One of the best ways to avoid traffic congestion is to listen to <b>traffic reports</b> on AM730. This station reports only about traffic and can be quick to report any accidents and congestion, as well as B.C. ferry reports, Langley ferry lineups, border wait times, and other information pertaining to getting around the city and its many suburbs. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">A unique feature of Vancouver and the rest of British Columbia is intersections with flashing green traffic signals. These <i>do not</i> indicate an advance left turn as it would in many other parts of North America. Instead, a flashing green light indicates a traffic signal that can be activated only by a pedestrian or a cyclist on the side street, but not by a motor vehicle. When the signal turns red, traffic stops as at any traffic signal. Any side street traffic must obey the stop sign on the side street and must yield to any pedestrians crossing the side street, even if traffic is stopped on the main street. </span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="mw-headline">By bicycle</span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The city of Vancouver is a very bicycle-friendly city. In addition to the extremely popular seawall bicycle routes along Stanley Park, False Creek and Kitsilano, there are a whole network of bicycle routes that connect the whole city. The City of Vancouver provides a map of the bicycle routes that is available at most bike shops or online. Also, all buses have bicycle racks on the front to help riders get to less accessible parts. North American visitors will find that, drivers in Vancouver are well accustomed to sharing the road with cyclists. </span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-26906389961532377792010-01-25T09:35:00.000-08:002010-01-25T10:42:04.342-08:00Liverpool "European Capital of Culture 2008 and the home of The Beatles"<span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4XfwXDtInspMR3ti9AhZV-jdosydmnQ0bs-ke9AD1gcXLIT59WAKFcjq6AdEVoE6Zv5LVuPbFgnJU2zC67ptS_G3oizuVstYKOIa2oLteoYhbU_WKk-yGqGRfcdXx29DyYDzc4EF9Loqi/s1600-h/LiverpoolThreeGraces.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4XfwXDtInspMR3ti9AhZV-jdosydmnQ0bs-ke9AD1gcXLIT59WAKFcjq6AdEVoE6Zv5LVuPbFgnJU2zC67ptS_G3oizuVstYKOIa2oLteoYhbU_WKk-yGqGRfcdXx29DyYDzc4EF9Loqi/s400/LiverpoolThreeGraces.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430748774099580626" border="0" /></a><br />Liverpool is a city with great cultural heritage and was awarded the title of European Capital of Culture 2008, with the famous Pier Head Waterfront being a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2004. Liverpool is home to the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and is also renowned for being the birthplace of a wide range of popular musicians including The Beatles, Gerry & the Pacemakers, Frankie goes to Hollywood, Echo & the Bunnymen and many more. The city possesses the largest national museum collection outside of London and has a fascinating and turbulent history as a great world maritime centre. Liverpool is home to Europe's oldest Chinatown. The famous Grand National Horse Race takes place in the outskirts of the city (Aintree).<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Albert Dock</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCc0M2jniyqjfZowFRXMsySZiSMHeTMdcpkPaUHgjw3ynj3tSZt9Z5l7G06wf_j9p2fehQo5ugpiGSfqxvPvM73PvqeOtRNnPPrlGuli2Y8tKbNYEW0JBBumAXHcFFfSo84SSJvCpmzhk/s1600-h/Albert+Dock.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 261px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCc0M2jniyqjfZowFRXMsySZiSMHeTMdcpkPaUHgjw3ynj3tSZt9Z5l7G06wf_j9p2fehQo5ugpiGSfqxvPvM73PvqeOtRNnPPrlGuli2Y8tKbNYEW0JBBumAXHcFFfSo84SSJvCpmzhk/s400/Albert+Dock.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430732900915221618" border="0" /></a><br />The Albert Dock is Liverpool's number one visitor attraction, showcasing the best of Liverpool in a stunning World Heritage waterfront setting.<br />Opened by Prince Albert in 1846, the Dock includes the largest group of Grade 1 listed buildings in the UK.<br />With award winning visitor attractions such as Tate Liverpool, BugWorld Experience, Yellow Duck Tours, The Beatles Story, Shiverpool Ghost Tours and The Merseyside Maritime Museum, the Dock also offers a range of stylish bars and restaurants including What’s Cooking, Baby Cream, Ha Ha Bar & Grill, Circo, Raven, Vinea, The Pan American Club, Pump House pub, Spice Lounge, Blue and Gusto.<br />The Dock also offers a good range of speciality souvenir and gift shops, numerous cafes and two hotels, Express by Holiday Inn and Premier Inn.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >The Beatles Story</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinUtLrCRCGEvTw9dFjf9brt2CwKDoFVzjHlN7P1CU7V8aZVk83b9RQvWUYZNH3AlD8T8TynlOeJhBQv3ffILaGlBF5UOjN8hVqrmRMTVnssBmO1-UiHuZ7RjYv0W51ZznNytY80RLb3-t1/s1600-h/The+Beatles+Story.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinUtLrCRCGEvTw9dFjf9brt2CwKDoFVzjHlN7P1CU7V8aZVk83b9RQvWUYZNH3AlD8T8TynlOeJhBQv3ffILaGlBF5UOjN8hVqrmRMTVnssBmO1-UiHuZ7RjYv0W51ZznNytY80RLb3-t1/s400/The+Beatles+Story.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430733084198157474" border="0" /></a><br />The basement of the Britannia Pavilion in Albert Dock houses "The Beatles Story" museum with memorabilia, photographs and films of the four Liverpool lads.<br />Hobbies & Activities category: Historic site; Miscellaneous collectibles museums<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Anfield</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4BDXPmujN38fQEWDkp1MQCGfSPikntQpVyT4BZQ5vyAxOrZhMUvWK5DPegwH4jRsFVr5cHEqz7W0_iu9Kmdq2FZ51Xm0lbnsOwaCe7KJ0BK7dhT0Qv4SgE8Ebz9BhXQ5VzqmQxbG-RMkw/s1600-h/Anfield.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 279px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4BDXPmujN38fQEWDkp1MQCGfSPikntQpVyT4BZQ5vyAxOrZhMUvWK5DPegwH4jRsFVr5cHEqz7W0_iu9Kmdq2FZ51Xm0lbnsOwaCe7KJ0BK7dhT0Qv4SgE8Ebz9BhXQ5VzqmQxbG-RMkw/s400/Anfield.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430733471310053698" border="0" /></a><br />Built in 1884, the stadium has been home to Liverpool F.C. since they were formed in 1892 as a result of the original tenants Everton F.C. leaving the ground.<br />The stadium currently comprises four stands: Spion Kop, Main Stand, Centenary Stand and Anfield Road, giving a total capacity of 45,276. The record attendance at the stadium is 61,905 which was set in a match between Liverpool and Wolverhampton Wanderers in 1952. This record was set prior to the ground's conversion to an all-seater stadium in 1994; the changes, which were a result of the Taylor Report, greatly reduced capacity. Notable features of the stadium include two gates named after former Liverpool managers: the Bob Paisley gate and the Bill Shankly gate. In addition, a statue of Shankly is situated outside the stadium. Anfield's public transport links include rail and bus services but it lacks dedicated parking facilities.<br />Anfield is a UEFA elite stadium, and has hosted many international matches at the senior level, including England matches. The ground was also used as a venue during Euro 96. Earlier in its history the stadium was also used as a venue for different events, such as boxing and tennis matches. The ground is due to host matches during the 2015 Rugby World Cup, with pool matches taking place at the stadium.<br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Tate</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK31Ja8pVya6LH_H2xP9IwdJkIZWCMQ6eBZufqoqEpbpwXzh5res4ZAb0tsnZwhWCiodZ7qllLcZWDgdqfkdtMVSMOmLIZ1GNB8dhLJtR0zObdEiwsc6LFzM4JGZro3n1z3n2OgZ2ZQzZK/s1600-h/tateliverpool.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK31Ja8pVya6LH_H2xP9IwdJkIZWCMQ6eBZufqoqEpbpwXzh5res4ZAb0tsnZwhWCiodZ7qllLcZWDgdqfkdtMVSMOmLIZ1GNB8dhLJtR0zObdEiwsc6LFzM4JGZro3n1z3n2OgZ2ZQzZK/s400/tateliverpool.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430734547441800914" border="0" /></a><br />Tate Liverpool is the home of the National Collection of Modern Art in the north, and in 2008 celebrated its twentieth year as a major presence in the city.<br />Located on the Grade One listed Albert Dock within easy walking distance from the City centre, the Tate Liverpool has become a venue for major exhibitions of international modern art, as well as hosting large and changing displays from the national collection, making it the ideal place to either see your favourite artwork or discover something new.<br />Tate Liverpool has seen some fantastic exhibitions over the recent years including work by Gustav Klimt, Rodin, Duchamp, Peter Blake, Giacometti and with the stunning work of 'Brit Art' movement including works by Sarah Lucas, Damien Hurst, Antony Gormley, Tracey Emin and Rachel Whiteread.<br />Attend one of our special events, entertain the family with our children's programmes, or simply enjoy the magnificent views across the Albert Dock from our café. However you choose to experience our Gallery, Tate Liverpool is the perfect place to relax, be inspired and have fun.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Roman-Catholic cathedral</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH0gvtBEpqUOs_21iCIEpW-q2gdB5pj8tU1fsVJiIcLebCxr9m_0nhBhwrAxD_6NFv_OZ3C4gerZDHc1eEdckeOhy-0n-OYHHgFbi_GRHsW405aeby2_v2cre0mv9UAvoUuV6_PnpzT9FF/s1600-h/Roman-Catholic+cathedral.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH0gvtBEpqUOs_21iCIEpW-q2gdB5pj8tU1fsVJiIcLebCxr9m_0nhBhwrAxD_6NFv_OZ3C4gerZDHc1eEdckeOhy-0n-OYHHgFbi_GRHsW405aeby2_v2cre0mv9UAvoUuV6_PnpzT9FF/s400/Roman-Catholic+cathedral.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430734346471848258" border="0" /></a><br />Building began on the Roman-Catholic cathedral in 1928 only 0.5mi/0.5km from the Anglican cathedral. The original design was for a neo-Classical building, but only the crypt of this was completed. After the Second World War an architectural competition was held for the completion of the cathedral, the successful design - much more modest than the original plan, which would have produced the second largest church in Christendom, - was by Sir Frederick W. Gibberd, who had worked on the design of Heathrow airport.<br /><br />The Cathedral, consecrated in 1967, is a massive circular structure centered on a lantern of medieval type and can accommodate a congregation of 3,000. Round this cylindrical lantern tower is a huge "tent" 200ft/61m in diameter, rising sharply to a funnel-shaped drum 270ft/82m high. Since the Cathedral is built on a hill it has the appearance of a huge lantern rising above the city. The principal structural materials are steel and glass - more glass than in any other cathedral. Opinions differ widely as to whether it is beautiful or not, but it must be conceded that it is striking. It has many nicknames among the local people such as "wigwam", "spaceship" and "Mersey Funnel". The altar, a block of white marble 10ft/3m long and weighing 10 tons, is from Skopje, the capital of Macedonia in former Yugoslavia. The spaces between the 16 supporting piers are occupied by chapels, separated by blue and green glass walls.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Anglican Cathedral</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuEf-AMfbIA5XlFFn1cKKjlgGb2aBGD81mPWqWC-tieX9nM8C_8veEECTfXcD_CgsPVr2a6g8Evk0IAMQbzb9C_68uBBjvWI-nzJcl9eNnmlEOS6wQ5cWZ0WT4MyL0ZbgycAYk84A6EczL/s1600-h/Liverpool_Anglican_Cathedral.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 277px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuEf-AMfbIA5XlFFn1cKKjlgGb2aBGD81mPWqWC-tieX9nM8C_8veEECTfXcD_CgsPVr2a6g8Evk0IAMQbzb9C_68uBBjvWI-nzJcl9eNnmlEOS6wQ5cWZ0WT4MyL0ZbgycAYk84A6EczL/s400/Liverpool_Anglican_Cathedral.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430735200755892210" border="0" /></a><br />The Anglican Cathedral, on St James's Mount, can accommodate a congregation of 2,500 and shows a sharp contrast in style to the Catholic Cathedral. It, too, was the result of an architectural competition in 1901, the successful architect was the then 22 year-old Sir Giles Gilbert Scott. When he died in 1960 the church was still not completed; it was finally consecrated in 1978, although services were already held in the building in the 1920s. It has only a single tower, 330ft/100m high, in place of the twin towers originally planned and is built of red sandstone from Woolton with a copper roof. The tower contains a carillon of some 2,500 bells, the largest of which weighs 4 tons. The Willis organ, with 9,704 pipes is one of the largest in the world. The Lady Chapel and stained glass are also very interesting.<br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Mr Hardman's Home Photographic Studio</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvyWr72zmNPeKt7I9O4ZzWdu_DReLfEb9oAOqKbuAe3fouXLnNCJA5dOQOWuUedIYqboM95EZj4PO_3Bpfz8EdcjUhVC9u_dArvrv-RE-ej4ZqxLdP2lAv6CLra9L7FSEQgLULzuQdSA_k/s1600-h/Mr+Hardman%27s+Home+Photographic+Studio.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvyWr72zmNPeKt7I9O4ZzWdu_DReLfEb9oAOqKbuAe3fouXLnNCJA5dOQOWuUedIYqboM95EZj4PO_3Bpfz8EdcjUhVC9u_dArvrv-RE-ej4ZqxLdP2lAv6CLra9L7FSEQgLULzuQdSA_k/s400/Mr+Hardman%27s+Home+Photographic+Studio.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430735547255924898" border="0" /></a><br />Situated just below the Anglican Cathedral in the centre of Liverpool is this fascinating house, home between 1947 and 1988 to Edward Chambré Hardman and his wife Margaret. The house contains a selection of photographs, the studio where most were taken, the darkroom where they were developed and printed, the business records and the Hardman’s living quarters - complete with all the ephemera of post-war daily life. The subject matter of the photographs – portraits of the people in Liverpool, their city and the landscapes of the surrounding countryside – provide a record of a more prosperous time when Liverpool was the gateway to the British Empire and the world. Parallel to this is the quality of Hardman's work and his standing as a pictorial photographer.<br />For 40 years this elegant Georgian town house was both the workplace and home to E Chambre Hardman, Liverpool's best known portrait and landscape photographer. 59 Rodney St is the UK's only example of an intact mid-20th century photographic studio open to the public.<br />In 2010 there will be an exhibition at Rodney Street focusing on Margaret Hardman. The ‘unsung hero’ of the Hardman duo, it was Margaret who kept the business on track and took care of its day to day running and staff. In addition to her photographs, a selection of her day and evening wear, jewellery and other personal belongings will be on display.<br />Highlights of the visit include.<br />•See a selection of Hardman's evocative images celebrating Liverpool when it was the gateway to the world<br />•Watch our introductory film with reminiscences by those who knew and worked with Hardman<br />•Step back in time and experience life in post-war Liverpool, brought to life by the personal effects of Mr and Mrs Hardman<br />•Buy exclusive high quality Hardman prints<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Liverpool Museum</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihJJtIwLZy3ZQ_2mpFzhBOUrKo9ON5FP9g8QABBzqiU3ca7z0OPrUN56pLfrpWirnuj76AeBv8UtXxsyA4iyvq7VDganOwVkHVnlE9zz5jVfFksooBqFCyi4Z6Klrqq_k_bRZaydT4zAEn/s1600-h/liverpool+museum.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihJJtIwLZy3ZQ_2mpFzhBOUrKo9ON5FP9g8QABBzqiU3ca7z0OPrUN56pLfrpWirnuj76AeBv8UtXxsyA4iyvq7VDganOwVkHVnlE9zz5jVfFksooBqFCyi4Z6Klrqq_k_bRZaydT4zAEn/s400/liverpool+museum.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430735672739219666" border="0" /></a><br />Adjoining the Polytechnic building, the Liverpool Museum contains a variety of collections, covering almost every field of knowledge from archaeology to the sciences. Among them are an interesting collection of model ships and the department of space travel, the famous Ince Blundell Collection (ancient marble) and the Sassoon Collection of carved ivory, and Egyptian, Babylonian and Assyrian antiquities.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >St George's Hall</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP88A9EH0zHL0UY2OYPC0vWIp9wpGVSYcT0B3nHfrW_mH2Uxp6RTkbXKR3hyYwdDoQ71WE_kTNqQhUQsnITVk1rwHUbfxUvDI6eDDkYZ6C-m3UZTdoblzAFRn-cmUUpfrRbqgZiUImTgB1/s1600-h/St+George%27s+Hall.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 303px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP88A9EH0zHL0UY2OYPC0vWIp9wpGVSYcT0B3nHfrW_mH2Uxp6RTkbXKR3hyYwdDoQ71WE_kTNqQhUQsnITVk1rwHUbfxUvDI6eDDkYZ6C-m3UZTdoblzAFRn-cmUUpfrRbqgZiUImTgB1/s400/St+George%27s+Hall.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430736147129511058" border="0" /></a><br />The facade of the Classical St George's Hall (Brown Street) by Harvey Lonsdale Elmes, 1838-1854, is decorated with Corinthian columns. The Great Hall, with one of the world's largest organs, is used for concerts and congresses. To the rear are St John's Gardens, in which are statues of prominent Liverpool citizens.<br />Hobbies & Activities category: Architecture - Victorian; Architecture - Roman, Greek, classical; Garden or botanic display; Musical activity or concert hall; Standalone sculpture, statue or fountain<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Speke Hall, Gardens & Estate</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JqrppZ5uiuX3db6xMgN-M7MbIp9OBRteGDzMFu_GZicyZOsNTv_N_tdvzfHVSikQbNKRdPGMldOFRfO5nQ4P_FnRVixTl6XbpFioxyiOxcxpbjMEUNhEfhg30blUsMJZRgB-RKH_Gv0i/s1600-h/Speke+Hall,+Gardens+%26+Estate.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JqrppZ5uiuX3db6xMgN-M7MbIp9OBRteGDzMFu_GZicyZOsNTv_N_tdvzfHVSikQbNKRdPGMldOFRfO5nQ4P_FnRVixTl6XbpFioxyiOxcxpbjMEUNhEfhg30blUsMJZRgB-RKH_Gv0i/s400/Speke+Hall,+Gardens+%26+Estate.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430736534943241730" border="0" /></a><br />The atmospheric interior of this rambling house spans many periods. Originally built in 1530, its Great Hall and priest hole date from Tudor times, while the Oak Parlour and smaller rooms, some with William Morris wallpapers, show the Victorian desire for privacy and comfort. There is also fine Jacobean plasterwork and intricately carved furniture. A fully equipped Victorian kitchen and servants' hall enable visitors to see 'behind the scenes'. The restored garden has spring bulbs, a rose garden, summer border and stream garden, and there are woodland walks and magnificent views of the Mersey basin and North Wales hills from The Bund, a high bank.<br />Home Farm, a 5-minute walk from Speke Hall, is a model Victorian farm building, restored and part-adapted to provide a restaurant, shop and visitor facilities, and offers estate walks, children's play area and orchard.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Mendips & 20 Forthlin Road [Beatles]</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />A combined escorted tour of Mendips and 20 Forthlin Road, the childhood homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, is your only opportunity to see where the Beatles met, composed and rehearsed many of their earliest songs. Imagine walking through the back door into the kitchen where John’s Aunt Mimi would have cooked him his tea, or standing in the spot where Lennon and McCartney composed ‘I Saw Her Standing There’. Join our custodians on a fascinating trip down memory lane, and take a moment to reflect on these incredible individuals. Note: no WC at Mendips. Visits by NT minibus only (charge including NT members).<br />Open Bank Holiday Mondays. Admission by guided tour only; 27 February to 14 March and 3 November to 28 November all tours depart from Liverpool City Centre. 17 March to 31 October morning tours depart from Liverpool City Centre, afternoon tours depart from Speke Hall. Telephone infoline or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/beatles Any photography or duplication of audio tour material is strictly prohibited. You will be asked to deposit all handbags, cameras and recording equipment at the entrance to both houses.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Walker Art Gallery</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibNhfopM-QLCuBwfGu2LqaSXjvVrgE4t6GXLoA80E5XznUcApo_g-QFQOQmBdW8ywWEovHQihIIMqyguGiRmfQJhdei7auFUB5K5OBN-0p3uN6YTpyNIv9ZWnQE_PdHVYW5on64nVDitkD/s1600-h/Walker+Art+Gallery.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibNhfopM-QLCuBwfGu2LqaSXjvVrgE4t6GXLoA80E5XznUcApo_g-QFQOQmBdW8ywWEovHQihIIMqyguGiRmfQJhdei7auFUB5K5OBN-0p3uN6YTpyNIv9ZWnQE_PdHVYW5on64nVDitkD/s400/Walker+Art+Gallery.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430737541117306930" border="0" /></a><br />Did you know the Walker Art Gallery holds the best collection of fine and decorative art in the North of England and an ever-growing collection of contemporary art?<br />The collection includes painting, sculpture and decorative arts from over six hundred years. Medieval, Renaissance and Pre-Raphaelite classics by Rembrandt, Rubens, Millais, Rossetti, Turner and Holman Hunt hang alongside another star of the collection, the Liverpool Cityscape by Ben Johnson, commissioned by the gallery in 2008 providing a unique panorama of the changing city.<br />Don’t miss the Gallery’s exciting variety of modern and contemporary art including David Hockney, Bridget Riley and Henry Moore and a fantastic temporary exhibitions programme featuring Toulouse Lautrec in spring/ summer and the John Moores 2010 Contemporary Painting Prize in the autumn coinciding with the Liverpool Biennial.<br />For families there is Big Art for Little Artists– a specially designed children’s gallery created for children under 8 years old. Add to this our stunning craft and design gallery, a welcoming café and gift shop in magnificent surroundings and we reckon it's a perfect day out for any art lover - all within yards of Lime Street Station and free to visit every day!<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Bluecoat</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh9uMKPgGbFGsPX5d55sE3YjQGZWGgduoJEPNTJ4TBy-AHRQCDAE873Z2TNvbixWZ51XxHQHw_B53JQ-lNLE6wxMrF25ZSBH3XPc-kjnLqEOi1r6oOjt7rl7ddBHOjYkh6QWGc2TKku3i-/s1600-h/Bluecoat.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh9uMKPgGbFGsPX5d55sE3YjQGZWGgduoJEPNTJ4TBy-AHRQCDAE873Z2TNvbixWZ51XxHQHw_B53JQ-lNLE6wxMrF25ZSBH3XPc-kjnLqEOi1r6oOjt7rl7ddBHOjYkh6QWGc2TKku3i-/s400/Bluecoat.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430738416044796562" border="0" /></a><br />Situated in the heart of the city, the Bluecoat is one of Liverpool's most distinctive buildings. The widely revered Grade 1 listed arts centre is over 290 years old and uses its unique spaces to showcase talent across visual art, music, dance, live art and literature. It also houses a creative community of artists and businesses and runs a participation programme with local communities.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >George Pier Head</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8DUHpbKOcYP6XFE4gffTAwTxPFr7ITfNXWXWtIZTU0OMk1JvzcBbW8DhApy9yWJ6YdZSWyAYRn9Mo37NEivLrAwA-CYL9Zhjh4d9HYfP9iz50UtYO0RwTqA4fz1mzN0_Hf7KJoTZey2cF/s1600-h/George+Pier+Head.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 323px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8DUHpbKOcYP6XFE4gffTAwTxPFr7ITfNXWXWtIZTU0OMk1JvzcBbW8DhApy9yWJ6YdZSWyAYRn9Mo37NEivLrAwA-CYL9Zhjh4d9HYfP9iz50UtYO0RwTqA4fz1mzN0_Hf7KJoTZey2cF/s400/George+Pier+Head.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430738251871020226" border="0" /></a><br />To the north of the George Pier Head the traditional trio of harbor buildings can be seen: the Port of Liverpool Building (administration) in Portland stone designed by Arnold Thornley in 1907, the Cunard Building named after the Canadian Samuel Cunard (Cunard opened the first shipping line Liverpool-Halifax-Boston) and the granite Royal Liver Building by W.A. Thomas (administration).<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >FACT</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKS-6LSC-Ek-r0tPtvFyVxncGoBm7L6zVWYbIX-lLhWPWYBxi3uZkwsngDERahNSCVMWhv94p_PNh3fO9Zoo_0k_JQWo_y1i015VVbFpSOQzSNLAVcxwGUkOiBYGs2YFedh8tTqkkOzkXu/s1600-h/fact.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKS-6LSC-Ek-r0tPtvFyVxncGoBm7L6zVWYbIX-lLhWPWYBxi3uZkwsngDERahNSCVMWhv94p_PNh3fO9Zoo_0k_JQWo_y1i015VVbFpSOQzSNLAVcxwGUkOiBYGs2YFedh8tTqkkOzkXu/s400/fact.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430739049663257698" border="0" /></a><br />FACT is the UK's leading organisation for commissioning, exhibiting, promoting and supporting artists’ work and innovation in the fields of film, video, and new media. FACT believes in the ability of individuals and communities to express themselves creatively, and work with international artists to develop exhibitions, increase knowledge about new technologies and their social impact.<br />Housed in the iconic FACT building in the historic Ropewalks area of Liverpool city centre, FACT offers visitors the world class art exhibitions, new media training and an exciting programme of events.<br />FACT has two galleries - plus an interactive space, three state-of-the-art cinemas, The Box, a shop - voted 14th hottest in Liverpool! - a cool bar and a friendly café. Entry to exhibitions is FREE, and the building also has FREE Wi-Fi access throughout.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Sudley House</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbWo7_Yce5lvxlrskbwtryX4af3ZvUrmt_xrc3gMEhwenPL-49HufpFFGaVnidbiGfX8_HsBQH72Jv7TkKzK9L0MLOYV7DWW7mtBTAWCCQeGPVNjiVcfdAfUclcdnma-FsSdROp4qILdo/s1600-h/Sudley+House.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbWo7_Yce5lvxlrskbwtryX4af3ZvUrmt_xrc3gMEhwenPL-49HufpFFGaVnidbiGfX8_HsBQH72Jv7TkKzK9L0MLOYV7DWW7mtBTAWCCQeGPVNjiVcfdAfUclcdnma-FsSdROp4qILdo/s400/Sudley+House.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430739380624986882" border="0" /></a><br />Experience the magnificent art collection of Victorian merchant ship owner George Holt in the heart of suburban Liverpool at Sudley House. A treasure trove of masterpieces await you by artists including Millais, Rossetti, Burne-Jones, Turner, Romney, Gainsborough and Landseer forming the only merchant art collection in the UK still in its original setting. A series of temporary exhibitions are hosted by Sudley House each year featuring costume and contemporary works.<br />Audio-visual displays on the ground floor recreate Victorian family life and younger visitors are welcome to enjoy the activities and resources in the Childhood Room. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the recently refurbished and extended Tea Rooms and the beautiful ground in which Sudley House is set.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Mersey Ferry Tour</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8r-3jPT5yaJl0RtIai8dnteeFbamHE-QTYxM3CoYCiQeNHyM5a9EU7OpkaZOYJ9lKKiucb-f0kxryobH5ro8WjqHc-m3Vmbk4G4TJKS5pCP7Ja-k8xWB16fQD4ntfbHJfNTtrH8w0aHSI/s1600-h/Mersey+Ferry+Tour.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8r-3jPT5yaJl0RtIai8dnteeFbamHE-QTYxM3CoYCiQeNHyM5a9EU7OpkaZOYJ9lKKiucb-f0kxryobH5ro8WjqHc-m3Vmbk4G4TJKS5pCP7Ja-k8xWB16fQD4ntfbHJfNTtrH8w0aHSI/s400/Mersey+Ferry+Tour.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430739692812381298" border="0" /></a><br />With a spectacular view of the Liverpool skyline as well as a tour of the city's waterway, the Mersey Ferry Tour is a great way to learn about the area's seafaring history. The tours, which depart from the Pier Head, last about 50 minutes and include a stop at the Seacombe Terminal, where the Aquarium is located.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Wirral</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />The Lady Lever Art Gallery holds one of the most beautiful collections of fine and decorative arts in the country. The gallery displays works collected by Leverhulme throughout his life. British 18th and 19th century painting, 18th century furniture and outstanding collections of Wedgwood and Chinese porcelain are among the treasures on show.<br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >South Port</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtCR-pH5RrPHI1exMPm0F5wQ9u1nVpJ9qsey4dR7Ij0wZMXd5PhxjM_nyuTGK9jpX-t7uJaNV_u3NCAx3yENkL1NgQKCjq8j7KjzjJOVE4yKbDrFcQPV9_C3RJ7ZXkVGnJXbasJYeySL-9/s1600-h/south+port.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtCR-pH5RrPHI1exMPm0F5wQ9u1nVpJ9qsey4dR7Ij0wZMXd5PhxjM_nyuTGK9jpX-t7uJaNV_u3NCAx3yENkL1NgQKCjq8j7KjzjJOVE4yKbDrFcQPV9_C3RJ7ZXkVGnJXbasJYeySL-9/s400/south+port.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430747154993949250" border="0" /></a><br />For art lovers, the Atkinson Art Gallery housed within the Southport Arts Centre is well worth a visit.<br />The collection includes nineteenth and twentieth century watercolours, and Victorian and twentieth century oil paintings.<br />Themed exhibitions from the permanent collection are regularly shown. Every month the Gallery 'spotlights' a "Painting (or Sculpture) of the Month", and a talk is given about the artist and the subject.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >St.Helens</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />The Citadel Arts Centre provides a wide spectrum of performing and visual arts activities suc as live theatre, comedy, film, dance, fine art and family-friendly events in addition to its renowned music programme.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Knowsley</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi498J7At0hpPe0fTyNO_4SKZMNwR3ZtbrGwAzCoQPDMorr1XOEzWsw7cVTnfsobNZXSe68SN71bQTXjELnM2DKIAxgzXcTh_R8riLjv2zPwrTlUNGL9DEji3o_ByHARej_4fJgv9EPFex/s1600-h/st-marys-church-knowsley-village-120689.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi498J7At0hpPe0fTyNO_4SKZMNwR3ZtbrGwAzCoQPDMorr1XOEzWsw7cVTnfsobNZXSe68SN71bQTXjELnM2DKIAxgzXcTh_R8riLjv2zPwrTlUNGL9DEji3o_ByHARej_4fJgv9EPFex/s400/st-marys-church-knowsley-village-120689.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430746911735845442" border="0" /></a><br />Don’t forget to take a visit to one of the two contemporary art galleries in Knowsley. The galleries provide a diverse and exciting programme of exhibitions exploring contemporary visual arts with education and outreach programmes. Located in Huyton and Kirkby (both within the main libraries) each host six to eight exhibitions per year. The two galleries present a high quality programme of exhibitions that are of international, national, regional and local importance.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Night Life In Liverpool</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Baa Bar</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />This lively local pub is a favorite for good beer and conversations. Regulars flock here for the inexpensive brands of beer and entertaining banter. It's a superb place for a relaxing drink or pre-dinner pint.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Cream</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />On the last Friday of every month this club draws crowds from across the country and is considered the hottest club in Liverpool. Regularly open only on Saturday, there's great music and dancing in a huge warehouse. Be ready to get down until the early morning when you come here.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >The Cavern Club</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuEx8P-GCObMwxpJsBpoXa3K_yEflK6-DTPZVRcLVerVL93q1GamlY4RaRcRfzfU1SyoSRrm-PiRJI_N2WE61w36Bqw2Hk24oTIm-pD8BJ3OPAG7UJ0vYGh_NT-NxDbQFNKs9hpu3p0B6Y/s1600-h/The+Cavern+Club.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuEx8P-GCObMwxpJsBpoXa3K_yEflK6-DTPZVRcLVerVL93q1GamlY4RaRcRfzfU1SyoSRrm-PiRJI_N2WE61w36Bqw2Hk24oTIm-pD8BJ3OPAG7UJ0vYGh_NT-NxDbQFNKs9hpu3p0B6Y/s400/The+Cavern+Club.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430747919097730946" border="0" /></a><br />This place was hot in the 1960s and people still flock here for all-night dancing and music. It is considered by many to be one of the most famous clubs in the world. Music history and modern sounds collide at this great Liverpool nightspot.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Zanzibar Club</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />This is a great local dance club that features DJ's spinning the hottest sounds. It's also a great spot for a good beer and a night of dancing and socializing. The Zanzibar Club usually draws a younger crowd for nights out on the town.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Transportations</span><br /></span><h3><span class="mw-headline">By plane</span></h3> <p><b></b>Liverpool John Lennon Airport (IATA: LPL) (ICAO: EGGP). Around 160 flights arrive daily from within the UK and Europe. The airport is well-served by low-cost airlines including Easyjet and Ryanair. For a complete listing of airlines and destinations, see the Summer and Winter timetables. </p><p>The airport offers a Fast Track service, which for a charge, means you can bypass the queue at security, but this tends to be worthwhile only for first flights of the day or if you risk missing your flight. </p><p>Liverpool John Lennon Airport is about 12km to the south of the city centre. Immediately outside the arrivals area you will find a taxi rank and bus stops. Taxis to the city centre cost around £12 (Approx. €16, US$24) for the 20 minute journey. </p><p>Several bus routes go directly to the city centre from the airport: </p> <ul><li> The No. 500 <i>Airport Express</i> runs every 30 minutes and takes about 45 minutes to reach the city centre. Cost is £2.60/€4 Adults, £1/€2 Children and £5/€10 Families. Student discount: £1.40. It should be said that it is as quick to use the service buses (listed below) and it is significantly cheaper. </li></ul> <p>The following local buses cost £1.60 to get into the city centre (£1.40 for students). As discussed above, they're as quick and cheaper to use: </p> <ul><li> The No. 80A, run by Arriva, runs every 15 minutes and takes 45 minutes to the city centre. </li></ul> <ul><li> The No. 82A, also run by Arriva, runs every 30 minutes and takes around 40 minutes to the city centre. This runs direct to Paradise Street interchange without stopping elsewhere in the city centre. </li></ul> <ul><li> The No. 86A (Arriva) runs every 15 minutes during the day and now runs through the night, every half hour. This takes a little less time than the 80A as it is a more direct route down Smithdown Road. Journey time is 40 minutes but may be longer at peak traffic times. </li></ul> <ul><li> The No. 81A also serves the airport, but does not go into the city centre. It may prove useful if you want to visit Woolton or the north of the city, as the route goes round the city ring road, Queens Drive, and terminates in Bootle. </li></ul> <p>The 80A and 86A also stop at Liverpool South Parkway station. It's a 10 minutes journey from where a frequent train service runs to the city centre in about 15 minutes. This may be a better option at times of peak road traffic (8AM-9AM, 5PM-6PM). </p><p><b>Manchester Airport</b> (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IATA" class="extiw" title="wikipedia:IATA"></a>IATA: MAN) (ICAO: EGCC) can also be used and may be a better option. It is about a 45-60 minute drive away from Liverpool. Direct train services also run between Liverpool Lime Street Station and Manchester Airport operated by Northern Rail. Manchester Airport serves a variety of long haul destinations in North America and Asia, as well as short haul services throughout Europe. </p><br /><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Liverpool is served by Liverpool Lime Street station which is in the heart of the city centre. Trains arrive frequently from all parts of the U.K. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Liverpool is only about <b>two hours from London by train</b>. There's a train about every hour, with extra weekday evening peak services from London, and it's not too expensive to get there. You can get a saver ticket for £60 on the day of travel, or for as little as £12.50 if you book a couple of weeks in advance. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">There is a direct train from Manchester Airport to Liverpool every hour at peak times (around 6:30AM-7:30PM). In addition, it is possible to reach Liverpool by changing at Manchester Piccadilly or Manchester Oxford Road. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Other main services </span></p><p>Birmingham<span style="font-size:100%;">, 1 hr 30 - 1h 45 minutes, half hourly Manchester, 50 minutes - 1h 10 minutes, 5 trains an hour (3 fast to Piccadilly and Oxford Road, of which 1 via Earlestown and 2 via Warrington, 1 slow to </span>Oxford Road (extra services in peak times) and 1 slow to Victoria) Leeds, 2 hours, hourly Sheffield and Nottingham, 1h <span style="font-size:100%;">30 mins and 3 hours respectively, hourly </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_bus"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">By bus</span></span></h3> <ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>National Express</b>, the U.K.'s largest scheduled coach company has a bus station a short walk from Liverpool City Centre. London is four to five hours away by coach and is served by a half a dozen services per day. Manchester is served by an hourly service taking a similar time to the train (except at rush hour). Manchester Airport can be reached by coach in under one hour, six coaches run per day. </span></li></ul> <ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Megabus</b> operates a fleet of ex-Hong Kong buses on its network across the U.K. There is one bus daily from London to Liverpool. Journey time 4-5 hours. Prices range from £1 (€1.46) to £11 (€16) depending on how far in advance you book. </span></li></ul> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Over the next 10 years a <b>Park and Ride</b> scheme will be developed, with easy access to the city centre, for more information see National Park and Ride Directory. </span></p> <ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Liverpool One Executive Travel</b> Provides an executive 16 seat minibus service from all airports, seaports and other locations. Prices vary depending on distances. Call 07761042952 or visit the website for further information. </span></li></ul> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="Get_around"></a></span><h2><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">Get around</span></span></h2> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Liverpool City Centre is small enough to walk around, but black cabs are plentiful if you are feeling lazy. Buses run out from the centre regularly from Paradise Street Interchange (mainly to the south) and Queen Square (mainly north/east). Both bus stations have travel centres with sometimes helpful staff who will assist with which bus to get and from which stand. At these, Saveaway, Solo and Trio travel passes can be purchased. The Saveaway presents a good value for the visitor, at £3.30 for unlimited travel for one day in 'Area C' (includes city centre, west out to Huyton, north to Crosby and south to Speke), including trains. All-zones saveaways can be obtained for about a pound more and will take you through the whole of the Merseytravel area. Perfect for visiting the Wirral ,and as far as Chester, or Southport, these include train and ferry services as well as buses. Trio (train, bus and ferry) and Solo (bus only) tickets require a photo, but have no peak-time limitations and can be bought for a week, month or year. This is ideal for visitors staying longer or working and therefore requiring more flexible travel. A Trio for one week costs about £14.70 for one zone, a Solo about the same for one area. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">The train service in Liverpool is quite reliable and efficient these days (having once been nicknamed 'Miseryrail' and 'MerseyFail' by commuters). The main stations in the city centre are Central, Lime Street, Moorfields and James Street. Lime Street is the terminus for many national lines and the local city line to Manchester. Moorfields is just off Dale Street, ideal for the business centre of Liverpool and Central is usually used by shoppers and visitors. Local trains run very frequently between Hunts Cross, Kirkby, Ormskirk and Southport on the Northern line. They run every 15 minutes from Monday to Saturday and 30 minutes on Sunday. Central station is the main station for the Northern line, although the 'loop' links the three main city centre stations. The Wirral line forms the link between the Lime Street, Moorfields and Central, so all of these stations act as an interchange between the City, Northern and Wirral lines. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">A new station in the south of Liverpool replaced the old Garston and Allerton stations in June 2006. This links the Northern and City lines and is ideal for the airport. It also acts as an interchange for a number of local buses. Adult bus fares on the main operator Arriva are a flat £1.60, or £1.40 for students, throughout the Merseyside area. Similar flat fares are available from the other operators as well. There are also limited night bus services on a Saturday night costing £3.00. Some buses are subsidised by Merseytravel, such as early morning and hospital services, and there is a maximum fare of around 80p. If you plan to travel a lot, a pre-paid pass presents much better value. Generally speaking, you save money with two or more train trips or three or more bus journeys. </span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-11238765003162817862010-01-16T00:51:00.000-08:002010-01-16T10:41:19.126-08:00Jungfrau region "Most Attractive Swiss Holiday Destination"<span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0E7mC4toisBEWIIrI9kUz9FSgrh_VPgqcLCDOGTwpAB8PalOB3iJka_Badb9rCiaGzlRozqOAWT75dXWM9h0NAzqinWo8-lYG_TNscJyboXVJ84IEolCUIASEVPhgkJsNglnJkmpdKpBR/s1600-h/Jungfrau.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0E7mC4toisBEWIIrI9kUz9FSgrh_VPgqcLCDOGTwpAB8PalOB3iJka_Badb9rCiaGzlRozqOAWT75dXWM9h0NAzqinWo8-lYG_TNscJyboXVJ84IEolCUIASEVPhgkJsNglnJkmpdKpBR/s400/Jungfrau.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427408560228938610" border="0" /></a>
<br /></span><p><span style="font-size:100%;">The <b>Jungfrau</b> is one of the main summits in the Bernese Alps, situated between the cantons of Valais and Bern in Switzerland. Together with the Eiger and Mönch, the Jungfrau forms a massive wall overlooking the Bernese Oberland and considered one of the most emblematic sights of the Swiss Alps.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The construction of the Jungfraujoch railway east to the summit in the early 20th century made the area one of the most frequented places in the Alps. Along with the Aletsch Glacier lying on the south, the Jungfrau is part of the Jungfrau-Aletsch Protected Area which was declared a World Heritage site in 2001.</span></p><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span><meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 2.4 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { size: 8.27in 11.69in; margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --> </style> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Lauterbrunnen</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOceKdcf1iOd-GrpV_G7EKRZTc5aoTALJm2OLzkD16jVQVC3Eose_2-A9kMri6ImHss_asQ42EQdq4G01D2aBu8EYkJ1YKkJ66TXq_kej9rMWHmu-XkxVlhypUK7V7Zth7nx0pBCZXsDyT/s1600-h/Lauterbrunnen.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOceKdcf1iOd-GrpV_G7EKRZTc5aoTALJm2OLzkD16jVQVC3Eose_2-A9kMri6ImHss_asQ42EQdq4G01D2aBu8EYkJ1YKkJ66TXq_kej9rMWHmu-XkxVlhypUK7V7Zth7nx0pBCZXsDyT/s400/Lauterbrunnen.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427258028200525810" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Lauterbrunnen is a small town 10km from Interlaken, to which it is connected by road and rail. It is spectacularly sited at the entrance to the Lauterbrunnen valley - 400m white cliffs topped with pines and dotted with waterfalls. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Lauterbrunnen is well served by public transport, being on one leg of the rail line up to the Jungfraujoch (at 3454m, the highest train station in Europe), and the Lauterbrunnen region has numerous cog-railways, gondolas, cable-cars and funicular railways making getting around very easy indeed. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Above Lauterbrunnen, above the valley on either side are the car-free villages of Wengen and Murren (visitors can park in the large car-park at the south end of Lauterbrunnen and carry on up via train or on foot). The scenery is magnificent, with a glorious mountain view around every corner, and the comprehensive transport network means that one can ride up the tough bits, and walk along the edge of the valley wall. Though going up or coming down the 400 to 800 metres from the top of the valley can be tough on the knees, it is the only way to see some of the views. Of course there are so many spectacular sights in this region that it's impossible to miss out completely. The town has two banks, each with an ATM outside.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Schmadribach Falls</b></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibpqD2DYeItaJfSM-tNtjghB0y9pbMF5d84-tGrRfXTqlijOBYuT-p6MZ-9hVlryq2dLNKxMxPzhhyphenhyphenX2CczazK5zJoWs08gndjfL9tCmeMPhSBmRJre-UkackOTRU2s5bDas1su0wRBrs1/s1600-h/Schmadribach+Falls.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibpqD2DYeItaJfSM-tNtjghB0y9pbMF5d84-tGrRfXTqlijOBYuT-p6MZ-9hVlryq2dLNKxMxPzhhyphenhyphenX2CczazK5zJoWs08gndjfL9tCmeMPhSBmRJre-UkackOTRU2s5bDas1su0wRBrs1/s400/Schmadribach+Falls.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427258512863154626" border="0" /></a></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">From Stechelberg it is a 45-60minutes' walk to the group of huts at Trachsellauenen (1,263 m/ 4,144ft), and from there another 1.25 hours' walk to the Schmadribach falls or a 1.5-hour walk to the Alp Obersteinberg (1,770 m/5,807ft), which affords a superb panorama of the mountains and glaciers around the upper part of the Lauterbrunnen valley. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Trümmelbach Falls</b></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr3fOPXcK5V25reGROtcPWnVWroj3e8zAeHiHAlgqiFPzKAhgdWAfvefM-BR4dyuweJaRnD3R7S_R0U05moWiMAVmxAXPthCL1mKJqTrNh-InZO0F0corfLMgHBwwaykVbqHDpVUsAr3sH/s1600-h/Tr%C3%BCmmelbach+Falls.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr3fOPXcK5V25reGROtcPWnVWroj3e8zAeHiHAlgqiFPzKAhgdWAfvefM-BR4dyuweJaRnD3R7S_R0U05moWiMAVmxAXPthCL1mKJqTrNh-InZO0F0corfLMgHBwwaykVbqHDpVUsAr3sH/s400/Tr%C3%BCmmelbach+Falls.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427259073468682338" border="0" /></a></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Trümmelbach Falls plunge down in five mighty cascades through the gorge carved out by the Trümmelbach (open: mid April-end of October; entrance fee; electric elevator, stepped paths, floodlighting). There are breath-taking views of the falls, 10 of which are accessible, thundering down through the mountain at 20,000liters per second. They are fed by the giant ice walls of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. Almost hidden inside the Schwarze Mönch they are the only waterfalls in Europe inside a mountain which are accessible. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Jungfraujoch
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVd9By88rYvgh5zTNDDTyjpGHKJF_pj464NqGIQ3MzyC9tumMDGBfHTp4Rfy2ZM8fKjZQCsZtU1RoYq0TmGQmWN8g1OqeTkLRz5HfxEVgJ6_oPdAvCW5c73WyUYaayTDhYfpLZ7D9bHIkY/s1600-h/Jungfraujoch.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVd9By88rYvgh5zTNDDTyjpGHKJF_pj464NqGIQ3MzyC9tumMDGBfHTp4Rfy2ZM8fKjZQCsZtU1RoYq0TmGQmWN8g1OqeTkLRz5HfxEVgJ6_oPdAvCW5c73WyUYaayTDhYfpLZ7D9bHIkY/s400/Jungfraujoch.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427259275467682530" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Jungfraujoch is a col or saddle between the Mönch and the Jungfrau in the Bernese Alps on the boundary between the cantons of Bern and Valais, inside the Jungfrau-Aletsch Protected Area. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Strictly, the Jungfraujoch is the lowest point on the mountain ridge between Mönch and Jungfrau, at 3,471 meters (11,388 ft). It is just above this location that the mountain station of Jungfraubahn is located, Jungfraujoch railway station, which at an elevation of 3,454 meters (11,332 ft) is the highest railway station in Europe. The Jungfraujoch is often called the "Top of Europe" in tourist literature. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Not far east of the Joch rises a peak called the Sphinx, which tops out at an elevation of 3,571 meters (11,716 ft). It begins from the Jungfraujoch on the Valais side and at the Great Aletsch Glacier. There is an elevator to the summit of the Sphinx, where a small viewing platform and a scientific observatory, the Sphinx Observatory, are located. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Jungfraujoch is also home to one of the Global Atmosphere Watch's atmospheric research stations. The Jungfraujoch can only be reached through a 7.3 km long cog railway tunnel, served by the Jungfraubahn, the highest in a series of cooperating railway companies that provide access to the Jungfraujoch from Interlaken.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Eiger Trail</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYDFw9-oyVRn0GehI5lcEGQU4gfFXIMXuJgs2gAVAgYJFfk4V1JopWuanL3hCvl9C-niI7BcDCKjAG-IMF-kWoZ-bskjYMLDQJTT065lV3OZdYcTVsuSWX_oN2wHvWogKlIOjhN50migdI/s1600-h/eiger+trail.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYDFw9-oyVRn0GehI5lcEGQU4gfFXIMXuJgs2gAVAgYJFfk4V1JopWuanL3hCvl9C-niI7BcDCKjAG-IMF-kWoZ-bskjYMLDQJTT065lV3OZdYcTVsuSWX_oN2wHvWogKlIOjhN50migdI/s400/eiger+trail.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427262134981786802" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">With the official marking and designation of a trail beneath the imposing north wall of Eiger, Switzerland now has yet another spectacular, high alpine trail. This trail is easy, comparatively short, and a MUST for visitors to the Jungfrau region. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The long route begins at Mannlichen, up the gondola from Wengen or Lauterbrunnen. But we recommend that you cut out lots of pointless elevation drop and gain by starting at the Eigergletscher Station on the train to Jungfraujoch. Indeed, it is an excellent outing to visit Jungfraujoch in the morning, get off the return train at Eigergletscher, and hike down the Eiger trail to Alpiglen. This is a 5-mile route that will take around 3 hours at a pleasant stroll. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">You start out beneath the massive Eiger Glacier and can watch it calve and avalanche while you sip tea and prepare for the hike. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Then, the well-marked trail (marked by blue-and-yellow bars painted on boulders where the trail is not obvious) heads around a shoulder and then runs beneath the massive north face. Try to pick out climbers on the cliff or the windows where you peek out at the stop on the Jungfraujoch railway. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Two hours into the hike you'll reach a series of waterfalls, culminating in a fairly spectacular one. Another hour or so later, you'll reach the Alpiglen station on the Kleinn-Scheideg to Grindelwald railway. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">This hike is best from late July to late September. Carry plenty of water, and trekking poles will make you more stable. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Giessbach Falls
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb73IDEu-_Jy6HNTGJThyuJeFEnMltrufjYDdmM-exv_ReYkGT-oa6TW4aNDAhW-_qXfPW7o3vOODbXOCPXh8krT88xAWn6oD0ccy279OXSh1XWhC7wH3PrJLgmgGftulo0Yxblwbhd8qI/s1600-h/Giessbach+Falls.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb73IDEu-_Jy6HNTGJThyuJeFEnMltrufjYDdmM-exv_ReYkGT-oa6TW4aNDAhW-_qXfPW7o3vOODbXOCPXh8krT88xAWn6oD0ccy279OXSh1XWhC7wH3PrJLgmgGftulo0Yxblwbhd8qI/s400/Giessbach+Falls.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427262784617459186" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Giessbach Falls are near the Grand Hotel Giessbach, in the town of Brienz. The falls are really picturesque and are made up of about 9 to 10 falls. Most tourists see the lower cascades from a boat/ship, while cruising on the Lake Brienz. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">From the hotel (rooms start at CHF$85 per person, per night, in the low season, but there's no charge to wander onto the patio and hike up the falls), there is a path up to the top six cascades. About halfway up, a rope bridge runs behind the falls, and you can reach out and touch the curtain of water! </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The views of the 120+-year-old ornate Grand Hotel Giessbach, on the banks of Lake Brienz, with the snow-capped mountains in the background, is priceless.
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<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Grindelwald valley</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKvC6F8FhnpOCY6JvO-hQ3wM5maSCpQb4yp9AZQL_-tpTAlLr9BLQ0tibBj8Lsewiv9lLKoPIKY39qBsaJE97fzQe15ExIK4FsH0v5H4Gq5Q2-ivaf6GVdaMG52uI3zByJ6CBaMcDrCy1m/s1600-h/Grindelwald+valley.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKvC6F8FhnpOCY6JvO-hQ3wM5maSCpQb4yp9AZQL_-tpTAlLr9BLQ0tibBj8Lsewiv9lLKoPIKY39qBsaJE97fzQe15ExIK4FsH0v5H4Gq5Q2-ivaf6GVdaMG52uI3zByJ6CBaMcDrCy1m/s400/Grindelwald+valley.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427263012521651762" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Grindelwald valley, with the village Grindelwald, is situated south of Interlaken. The valley is well known because of the magnificent views at the Eiger, Wetterhorn and Schreckhorn. There are two glaciers, the upper and lower Grindelwald glacier, the lower glacier can be reached by cableway (to Pfingstegg) and from there it is easy to walk. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">View-points of the Grindelwald valley (there are more): Männlichen, Kleine Scheidegg, Grosse Scheidegg, First, Lower Glacier, Pfingstegg. They all can be reached by train, cableway or bus and of course you can walk. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">At Männlichen and Kleine Scheidegg you have an magnificent view at the snow-capped mountains of this region.
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<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Wetterhorn</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx5xsArrIOYhJAOCCNRD1CDCugIHV2gxytztitErfJF2JdMmReolITxdGyCZ1xiuljaLp3MUZMFl40eUEhv4Qo2zh4wMymJRuROmkDhFHogo7e7PK3fHFCZsJ_kWtHHqhe4fa91VblUI32/s1600-h/Wetterhorn.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx5xsArrIOYhJAOCCNRD1CDCugIHV2gxytztitErfJF2JdMmReolITxdGyCZ1xiuljaLp3MUZMFl40eUEhv4Qo2zh4wMymJRuROmkDhFHogo7e7PK3fHFCZsJ_kWtHHqhe4fa91VblUI32/s400/Wetterhorn.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427263195890356434" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Wetterhorn dominates the Grindelwald Valley with its great triangular 1300 metre high limestone wall rising vertically from the meadows of the valley floor. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">It is a 3 hour climb on a steep path traversing a series of cliffs to reach the large Gleckstein Hut situated in upper pastures. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">From the hut (after the usual early morning alpine start) a track leads over stony ground to reach the Krinnen Glacier. On the far side it is a long, steep climb (alpine grade PD) over mixed ground - rocks, scree and snow to gain the Wettersattel - the col between the Wetterhorn and the adjacent Mittelhorn. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">A final steep snow slope brings one to the 3701m high summit and a dramatic viewpoint - immediately below the summit the cliffs drop sheer to Grindelwald in the valley floor far below. The superb panorama of peaks that unfolds to the west includes the famous alpine trinity of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau.
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<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Mönch</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgx47P1NGxlhQtZVyHP9L-IMi23kdG5YH5gv_wX8TnfHh5ETQuJJzYzPkYRl7qPF30PmEgH8EDkbySCmrKKwGBo9S741oE2jvW6J6N-5T8ObFRCD7Xx78NnrIiiNM9zlS5Vrfr4MbrU6NR/s1600-h/M%C3%B6nch.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 330px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgx47P1NGxlhQtZVyHP9L-IMi23kdG5YH5gv_wX8TnfHh5ETQuJJzYzPkYRl7qPF30PmEgH8EDkbySCmrKKwGBo9S741oE2jvW6J6N-5T8ObFRCD7Xx78NnrIiiNM9zlS5Vrfr4MbrU6NR/s400/M%C3%B6nch.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427263453185390322" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Mönch (German: "monk") is a mountain in the Bernese Alps. Together with the Eiger and the Jungfrau it forms a highly recognisable group of mountains visible from far away.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Mönch lies on the border between the cantons of Valais and Berne, and forms part of a mountain ridge between the Jungfrau and Jungfraujoch to the west, and the Eiger to the east. The mountain is located west of Mönchsjoch (a 3,650 m high pass) and Mönchsjoch Hut and north of the Jungfraufirn and Ewigschneefäld, two affluents of the Great Aletsch Glacier. The north side of the Mönch forms a step wall above the Lauterbrunnen valley. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Jungfraubahn railway tunnel runs right under the summit at a height of approximately 3,300 metres. The peak was first climbed on August 15, 1857 by Christian Almer, Christian Kaufmann, Ulrich Kaufmann and Sigismund Porges.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>North face Trail</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR5UGhVP9GzvSSdnl2JdRF2fKGVuw0940oy-FdS-Lfhqfu5DGhYPeUAMe2-dSTuStqLTt5iRQSj_ysH-dnsHGIaUxImdiFadrSHLxDZdu8g-IZAo7IV1vOZOv2P7m_EOLYgh5uju4EYENS/s1600-h/north+face+trail+murren.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR5UGhVP9GzvSSdnl2JdRF2fKGVuw0940oy-FdS-Lfhqfu5DGhYPeUAMe2-dSTuStqLTt5iRQSj_ysH-dnsHGIaUxImdiFadrSHLxDZdu8g-IZAo7IV1vOZOv2P7m_EOLYgh5uju4EYENS/s400/north+face+trail+murren.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427267316791816898" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">This is a beautiful alpine stroll and every so often along the path you'll discover an info board on the facing mountain with details of how and when it was first conquered. It only takes about 2.5 hours with a refreshing mountain hut to stop at on route. Leaves plenty of time to discover the traffic-free village of Murren.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Mürren</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLVjoylzJvU_ztWtT2bEcgkayy8qJFmCYg2b_aogUm5sya8G2cV4qzS-MONxaqnqQFV-EPhyphenhyphenVwypPEpLmvHDVuePRnd4pTA05bgLcCbZ1saGr_ocTy2PC-PECoYLtb1XtVFb3QCtRfdyw_/s1600-h/Murren.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 389px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLVjoylzJvU_ztWtT2bEcgkayy8qJFmCYg2b_aogUm5sya8G2cV4qzS-MONxaqnqQFV-EPhyphenhyphenVwypPEpLmvHDVuePRnd4pTA05bgLcCbZ1saGr_ocTy2PC-PECoYLtb1XtVFb3QCtRfdyw_/s400/Murren.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427267063896025378" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Mürren</b> is a marvelous mountain village (7km from Lauterbrunnen, 1638m, 363 inhabitants). It lies on a sunny terrace at the foot of the Schilthorn mountain (with its famous revolving Pitz Gloria restaurant). There may be other Swiss mountain villages that are equally pretty, but none of them enjoys views like those from Mürren across the deep valley to the dark rock faces and white-and-blue glaciers of the Eiger (3970m), Mönch (4029m) and Jungfrau(4158m) - simply breathtaking. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Total travel to Mürren takes 28 minutes. First take the Lauterbrunnen-Grütschalp funicular, which comes every half hour (for example, at 11:02, 11:32, 12:02). The entrance is right across the Lauterbrunnen train station. The ride is 10 minutes long. From Grütschalp take the BLM train to Mürren The funicular and the train are well connected. They basically share the same mini-station. The train departs two minutes after the funicular arrives. The ride to Mürren is 16 minutes long. <i>Grab a seat on the left side for the breathtaking panorama of the Alps</i>. You will need a map of the area. If you did not have the time to pick up a free map at the Grütschalp station, you still have a chance to do it in Mürren – at the station you will find plenty of the local maps and brochures.
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<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Kleine Scheidegg</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUpkk3LMegjMnF5beWD3yjWFfkic7fymtaatH9wt8MkU1iB3qAwM1AI7XA_FmyE26646OmQMERkB5Lk8QkbA2F4THlxpTEfL-1sLlA5CbF8hFmSVPw9V061DiOg5wHNLE06kCWpBhat_Xw/s1600-h/Kleine+Scheidegg.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUpkk3LMegjMnF5beWD3yjWFfkic7fymtaatH9wt8MkU1iB3qAwM1AI7XA_FmyE26646OmQMERkB5Lk8QkbA2F4THlxpTEfL-1sLlA5CbF8hFmSVPw9V061DiOg5wHNLE06kCWpBhat_Xw/s400/Kleine+Scheidegg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427267627727272546" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Climbing up to Kleine Scheidegg. You can take an easy path or the mountain trail. The last one is heavier but mutch more beautiful. You can start in Lauterbrunnen or take the train to Wengen or Wengernalp and start there.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Everywhere you look you see mountains with snow and waterfalls coming down. The tour takes about five hours or more. At Kleine Scheidegg you can rest an have a drink of have something to eat. The view is excellent. In the direction of Grindelwald you can see the Eiger, Wetterhorn, Schreckhorn. More at your left de Mönch and the Jungfrau.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Schilthorn</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKVFl89aJ9Fw195qtzmqw-kagJ4vlP8nDsyvSynqeTzrEMatBPpCv3j0wYeoFOiZurz50_h1ersY44JFhIdh0rAN7T5SScQ4S4ACOBEU7Z7EUr-8xJazNLGQTiXKmCSb4wGhPrysV4yRVP/s1600-h/Schilthorn.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 367px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKVFl89aJ9Fw195qtzmqw-kagJ4vlP8nDsyvSynqeTzrEMatBPpCv3j0wYeoFOiZurz50_h1ersY44JFhIdh0rAN7T5SScQ4S4ACOBEU7Z7EUr-8xJazNLGQTiXKmCSb4wGhPrysV4yRVP/s400/Schilthorn.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427268128666213058" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">James Bond fans are not allowed to leave the Jungfrau region without taking the tram to Schilthorn. The famous Bond film <i>On Her Majesty's Secret Service</i> was filmed here, atop the craggy mountain. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Schilthorn is somewhat campy and touristy, as are most things in this region of Switzerland. But the views are stunning. And watching the paragliders leap off the cliff into a mile of vertical nothingness and float dreamily on the thermals is worth the tram price alone. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">You can eat here in a rotating restaurant that is famous for champagne Bond breakfasts. The food is good, but pricey. Also, don't forget to catch the film about Schilthorn's history. It runs every 30 minutes. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The dizzyingly steep tram up to Schilthorn will ruffle even a skier's feathers. You can get there from Stechelberg (no rail service), at the head of the Lauterbrunnen Valley, stopping in Gimmelwald on the way. Or you can get there from Murren (where there is a cog railway accessible on your Jungraurail pass), via a private railway to Birg (included in the tram price) and then the gondola to the top. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Use your Jungfraurail Pass to get to Murren, then buy an early morning pass, departing Murren between 710am and 840am, and your round trip ticket will be around $38USD. Otherwise, plan on up to $55 round trip, depending on class. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">It's best to use Schilthorn as your first stop in a transit of the Lauterbrunnen Valley, by going up through Murren ($10 in second class, one way), then down to Gimmelwald and Stechelburg ($29 in second class, one way). Then return to Lauterbrunnen on foot or bicycle, stopping off at Trummelbach falls on the way.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>The Aletsch Glacier</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCsHCWIiYdB4okEgEQ3ka9XI0I-tUtERVz0hXZMuM-11tBn_VQY5F04qsStqWoAtddbneceGBnWhgyMo4OiMffX8yAv8s6m1EY0EEEoY13utJQ7Qdm3-CIh6bObEADAs36jCv_7H7Oh4eZ/s1600-h/The+Aletsch+Glacier.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 252px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCsHCWIiYdB4okEgEQ3ka9XI0I-tUtERVz0hXZMuM-11tBn_VQY5F04qsStqWoAtddbneceGBnWhgyMo4OiMffX8yAv8s6m1EY0EEEoY13utJQ7Qdm3-CIh6bObEADAs36jCv_7H7Oh4eZ/s400/The+Aletsch+Glacier.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427268589046465442" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Aletsch Glacier (German: Aletschgletscher) or Great Aletsch Glacier (German: Grosser Aletschgletscher) is the largest glacier in the Alps. It has a length of about 23 km and covers more than 120 square kilometres (more than 45 square miles) in the eastern Bernese Alps in the Swiss canton of Valais. The Aletsch Glacier is composed by three smaller glaciers converging at Concordia, where its thickness is estimated to be near 1 km. It then continues towards the Rhone valley before giving birth to the Massa river. There is a panoramic view of the whole glacier from the Eggishorn.
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Aletsch Glacier is one of the most impressive features of the Swiss Alps. The whole area, including other glaciers is part of the Jungfrau-Aletsch Protected Area, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Sphinx Observatory
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5dNR-SaBR324boRpntTUs_DKKTvbI2PVmS3h3Xepy6DA_BSHXjqbbeOmHXK-0JxQ53adxL8SKchItrDSaRzkt61aMhDapa1ekpKcf8DiuabVHMHuh68ea1WPy499NjCtA2g3pLD-Suoeq/s1600-h/Sphinx+Observatory.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5dNR-SaBR324boRpntTUs_DKKTvbI2PVmS3h3Xepy6DA_BSHXjqbbeOmHXK-0JxQ53adxL8SKchItrDSaRzkt61aMhDapa1ekpKcf8DiuabVHMHuh68ea1WPy499NjCtA2g3pLD-Suoeq/s400/Sphinx+Observatory.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427407055678198354" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Sphinx Observatory is an observatory located on Jungfraujoch in Switzerland.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Lake Brienz</b></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZ8Dn_tf2eaF7zs0HEytsqVJbRNSY1YhwiU0BSBe-m5MJ-9WR9qxJ9dbzrhfNLK-RDYe7QWKIwUKNB2_xoss-mvKN1s2kSQi1vpyVT7oxkvCNNCGO7NXzbYRp7SWQmBZj6jrO33XWZ0BB/s1600-h/Lake+Brienz.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZ8Dn_tf2eaF7zs0HEytsqVJbRNSY1YhwiU0BSBe-m5MJ-9WR9qxJ9dbzrhfNLK-RDYe7QWKIwUKNB2_xoss-mvKN1s2kSQi1vpyVT7oxkvCNNCGO7NXzbYRp7SWQmBZj6jrO33XWZ0BB/s400/Lake+Brienz.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427407398486589122" border="0" /></a>
<br />Lake Brienz is located in the Swiss canton of Bern to the north of the Alps. There are no shallow ends in the lake and the shores are very steep. The river Aare flows through, joining Lake Thun after leaving Lake Brienz. Towns and villages in the area of the lake are Brienz, Interlaken, Unterseen and Matten. This lake has an unforgettable natural setting and offers a vast array of attractions with unlimited possibilities for sport and recreation throughout the year. The alpine region of Brienz-Meiringen-Hasliberg is one of 27 vacation resorts in Switzerland to have received the seal of approval from the Swiss Agency of Tourism.
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<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Lake Thun</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-Neg6KhDw3oWYmRDrM9pQqeGQf_x3BaiP71i99narrgpYm4lxxVwsg1N4Px2nCUiuVjUu-A5xKTp7k2tH-jzqa-buBta_KieCpzTVFHxATuRH3KIVjh01gABIsgIexqzT4MpC6pfc7g6/s1600-h/Lake+Thun.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 263px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-Neg6KhDw3oWYmRDrM9pQqeGQf_x3BaiP71i99narrgpYm4lxxVwsg1N4Px2nCUiuVjUu-A5xKTp7k2tH-jzqa-buBta_KieCpzTVFHxATuRH3KIVjh01gABIsgIexqzT4MpC6pfc7g6/s400/Lake+Thun.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427407807367255906" border="0" /></a>
<br />Lake Thun is located in the Bernese Highlands in Switzerland north of the Alps. It was named after the city of Thun on the north bank of the lake. Lake Thun was formed after the last Ice Age. In the distant past Thun and Brienz lakes were one. Recreational possibilities here include biking, hiking, a variety of water sports, canyoning, rafting and sky sports in summer and skiing, Nordic walking and snowboarding in winter. You can take a bike tour around Lake Thun and embrace the beauty of nature. There are 360 km of marked biking routes in the area.
<br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0.2in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Transportations</span></span></p><h2><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="mw-headline">Get in</span></span></h2> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Trains</b> arrive frequently from</span> Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Berne and Luzern. Connection at SpiezValais and to Italy via Lotschberg and Simplon tunne<span style="font-size:100%;">ls. </span> provides access to canton </p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">There are two stations: Interlaken Ost (east) and Interlaken West, the latter is closer to the city centre. Most trains stop at both stati</span>ons, except for trains to Luzern and the trains to Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald which s<span style="font-size:100%;">top only at Ost station. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>By car</b>, follow <b>Autoroute A8</b> (former N8) into the city center.</span><span style="font-size:100%;">Rental/autovermietung- car, bus, van, minibus rental. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>By bus</b>. Bus2alps operates direct private bus's from Florence, Rome, Paris and Munich to Interlaken. Timetables do vary but are busiest in February and March to cater for winter sport activities. Travel and accommodation packages are available and small and big groups are catered for. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="Get_around"></a></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"><span style="font-weight: bold;">
<br /></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;" class="mw-headline">Get around</span></span> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Interlaken is small enough to get around <b>on foot</b> or <b>bikes</b>. <b>Taxis</b> are available from either train station and most hotels. With the guest card from your hotel, you can travel around Interlaken for free (it also gives discounts to local tourist attractions). Sightseeing Tours provided also in english by Panda1 </span></p> QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-69099254437787325572010-01-13T09:33:00.000-08:002010-01-13T10:02:51.030-08:00Miami "The best beaches in Miami and best sightseeing views"<span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-6nulnk61bgZAq7nQc9hYGW1vGmkUhIAgy5Sq2cPQOYouwUgW93pbm6xzDuyxRBRB1laMNaN-qg9slfk71j0Wqi7daeloR2Kxo1mWkI_20OLuJsPv8kyd42c4s0EmCnOrABtnuArO4Ca0/s1600-h/miami.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-6nulnk61bgZAq7nQc9hYGW1vGmkUhIAgy5Sq2cPQOYouwUgW93pbm6xzDuyxRBRB1laMNaN-qg9slfk71j0Wqi7daeloR2Kxo1mWkI_20OLuJsPv8kyd42c4s0EmCnOrABtnuArO4Ca0/s400/miami.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426285566438198786" border="0" /></a>
<br />
<br /></span><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 2.4 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { size: 8.27in 11.69in; margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --> </style> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Miami</b> is a major global city located on the coast in southeastern Florida, in the United States. Miami is the county seat of Miami-Dade County, the most populous county in Florida. The Miami Urbanized Area (as defined by the Census Bureau) was the fifth most populous urbanized area in the U.S. in the 2000 census with a population of 4,919,036. The United Nations estimated that in 2007, Miami had become the fourth largest urbanized area in the United States, behind New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Miami is well known as a global city because of its importance in finance, commerce, culture, fashion, media, entertainment, arts and international trade. An international center for popular entertainment in television, music, fashion, film, and the performing arts, Miami also has a powerful influence internationally. The city is also home to the largest concentration of international banks in the United States, as well as home to many international company headquarters, and television studios. The city's Port of Miami is the number one cruise/passenger port in the world and is known for accommodating the largest volume of cruise ships in the world, and is home to many major cruise line headquarters.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Bayfront Park</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlbozqC3luiYv-OMm-xnTOodRQO-hWK5OupJeOST2o9xQUDXZy0oRPhFoG1aNQNdw251bcsyVBufskVp9Q1OoywXpqTEUYtw6mF7W3x4M1BLXt4IsZIutiXw3TYrV4LttBbNQpPQsfq2i/s1600-h/Bayfront+Park.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlbozqC3luiYv-OMm-xnTOodRQO-hWK5OupJeOST2o9xQUDXZy0oRPhFoG1aNQNdw251bcsyVBufskVp9Q1OoywXpqTEUYtw6mF7W3x4M1BLXt4IsZIutiXw3TYrV4LttBbNQpPQsfq2i/s400/Bayfront+Park.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426279248820248562" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Bayfront Park, on the east side of Biscayne Boulevard, was redesigned in the 1980s. An attractive feature is the electronically controlled Pepper Fountain. Other highlights include an amphitheatre used for musical performances of all kinds, a tower for laser illuminations, and three important monuments: the Torch of Friendship, symbolising Miami's relationships with the countries of Central and South America; the World War II Memorial; and the Challenger Memorial, commemorating the crew of the Challenger spacecraft which exploded in 1986. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Bayside Marketplace
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihbVPV1AL6ZVSfCeGfNJF2PuJ-dqQz31K26H4TAOAWvbPQQu5lQpuZNTS0UH487y1BJsPK9O-TGnxfwbBBFyl5kCPRr3SXv0hgLh04MIa-z0YJgvPCFqWrQJrovwfjSUhsbC2_7wbiazjY/s1600-h/Bayside+Marketplace.jpeg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihbVPV1AL6ZVSfCeGfNJF2PuJ-dqQz31K26H4TAOAWvbPQQu5lQpuZNTS0UH487y1BJsPK9O-TGnxfwbBBFyl5kCPRr3SXv0hgLh04MIa-z0YJgvPCFqWrQJrovwfjSUhsbC2_7wbiazjY/s400/Bayside+Marketplace.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426279493103901778" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Bayside Marketplace is a large mall with more than 150 specialty and tourist shops, numerous cafes and restaurants and daily live entertainment. Tour boats leave from here, which visit locations around Biscayne Bay. As well, there is a water taxi service to Miami Beach and downtown hotels located here. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Little Havana
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0RlVyJ2mUcPkb2MA-srRqiNM3Xa1VKowrWIraTWjcsB6O23sk4w7fVRFfNuINOptkoHodBW4ZBuw96Itj0J4R2-h5eEHgN259bYA6cINnwKlRsvqq75prF2wTJ2h8ycjmS6W5BsDOeHk0/s1600-h/Little+Havana.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 386px; height: 370px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0RlVyJ2mUcPkb2MA-srRqiNM3Xa1VKowrWIraTWjcsB6O23sk4w7fVRFfNuINOptkoHodBW4ZBuw96Itj0J4R2-h5eEHgN259bYA6cINnwKlRsvqq75prF2wTJ2h8ycjmS6W5BsDOeHk0/s400/Little+Havana.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426279817006843154" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Cuban center of Miami, Little Havana isn't know for its wealth of tourist attractions but more for its distinctive cultural flavor. There are restaurants, specialty food shops and Latin music is always in the air. Calle Ocho is the main thoroughfare running through the district and home to much of the activity here. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Calle Ocho</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiusTHtKQkc2TCY3MtIM_tfpJ0VK6yUAfjTRD0ieF1Dce19xcDMNUbwtZddnI1BFe4j3ElWVz7Ac0aHX3lFNjXKPYn_uDPEBWuytRtGoJIjEz0wPniooUYObxtzkYiEmZvLMMH0qPNsAYIA/s1600-h/Calle+Ocho.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 304px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiusTHtKQkc2TCY3MtIM_tfpJ0VK6yUAfjTRD0ieF1Dce19xcDMNUbwtZddnI1BFe4j3ElWVz7Ac0aHX3lFNjXKPYn_uDPEBWuytRtGoJIjEz0wPniooUYObxtzkYiEmZvLMMH0qPNsAYIA/s400/Calle+Ocho.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426280109337695714" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">From Bayfront Park (Brickell Avenue) 8th Street runs west over the Miami River. Outside the city centre with its skyscrapers it is known as Calle Ocho, and continues into the Tamiami Trail, which runs through the Everglades. The district on the west side of downtown Miami through which it runs is known as Little Havana because of the many Latinos, particularly Cuban exiles, who live here: hence also the Spanish name Calle Ocho ("Street 8"). Between SW 12th Avenue and SW 27th Avenue is an area of shops, small markets and cheerful cafes and restaurants with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The everyday language of Little Havana is Spanish. Planning controls seek to maintain the "Cuban" character of 8th Street. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMC0zdOAIJfz-kZrx1CUaNp1IcXRxy2Qnf0YVuq5fMFDkpD3CP4g-aWbNMffbrCK2IatCREbHbCBNT0SCSGTs9WuVQ0MWOzbr5Bw0VlwDxTmo4iVyB3TLilZewfzlicFG4hr3G6q9u9u0j/s1600-h/vizcaya+museum+and+garden.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMC0zdOAIJfz-kZrx1CUaNp1IcXRxy2Qnf0YVuq5fMFDkpD3CP4g-aWbNMffbrCK2IatCREbHbCBNT0SCSGTs9WuVQ0MWOzbr5Bw0VlwDxTmo4iVyB3TLilZewfzlicFG4hr3G6q9u9u0j/s400/vizcaya+museum+and+garden.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426280366167628338" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Vizcaya Museum and Gardens was the former home of early 20th century industrialist, James Deering. Built in 1916, the mansion features 34 rooms arranged around a central courtyard. This 28-acre estate and Italian Renaissance-style villa is filled with European furniture and decorative arts from the 15th to 19th century. It took more than 1,100 workers and craftsmen to complete the Vizcaya project, many of whom were brought over from Europe to ensure authenticity in design.
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<br />The gardens contain a number of Italian and French fountains, pools and sculptures. A breakwater at the base of the steps leading into Biscayne Bay is carved into the form of female figures. The name "Vizcaya" is a Basque word meaning "an elevated place "
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<br />The estate has hosted a number of world leaders and important historical events including the meeting between Pope John Paul II and the former president Reagan in 1987 as well as Queen Elizabeth II during her 1991 tour of America.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
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<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Best Party Beach</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9STHmog5OVn3s91yddAeF1C-rdJcMg5eFn6qkZUPkaFnGtPOvALYgb_xtyL0L3ezgUyDgeEYE6NaL6s-VtFtgEU6zpRaJJrwz1njHmJPhWr1jKFXH0r-2VNLYU6UoEOouaiV_ZeBpuKm/s1600-h/Crandon+Park+Beach.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9STHmog5OVn3s91yddAeF1C-rdJcMg5eFn6qkZUPkaFnGtPOvALYgb_xtyL0L3ezgUyDgeEYE6NaL6s-VtFtgEU6zpRaJJrwz1njHmJPhWr1jKFXH0r-2VNLYU6UoEOouaiV_ZeBpuKm/s400/Crandon+Park+Beach.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426280657441229218" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">In Key Biscayne, Crandon Park Beach, on Crandon Boulevard, is National Lampoon's Vacation on the sand. It's got a diverse crowd consisting of dedicated beach bums and lots of leisure-seeking families, set to a soundtrack of salsa, disco, and reggae music blaring from a number of competing stereos. With 3 miles of oceanfront beach, bathrooms, changing facilities, 493 acres of park, 75 grills, three parking lots, several soccer and softball fields, and a public 18-hole championship golf course, Crandon is like a theme park on the sand. More recently, they added Eco-Adventure Tours, including kayaking and snorkeling. For more information, call tel. 305/365-3018. It's open daily from 8am to sunset.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Best Beach for People-Watching</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36k_RAKww-k0Bd40e52txs3z4JjXIDtIYpGpQMddfSUswVEqV9nTjbN9LnIViLS634qewWuVhUUn0JrA0-E43shBYGeH8OFLWdNZ3lwJwQ86ae9Hi3o3NuLhtwYr5YwasGWYG6u_uPjPU/s1600-h/Lummus+Park+Beach.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 274px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36k_RAKww-k0Bd40e52txs3z4JjXIDtIYpGpQMddfSUswVEqV9nTjbN9LnIViLS634qewWuVhUUn0JrA0-E43shBYGeH8OFLWdNZ3lwJwQ86ae9Hi3o3NuLhtwYr5YwasGWYG6u_uPjPU/s400/Lummus+Park+Beach.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426280868353804770" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Lummus Park Beach, aka Glitter Beach, runs along Ocean Drive from about 6th to 14th streets on South Beach. It's the best place to go if you're seeking entertainment as well as a great tan. On any day of the week, you might spy models primping for a photo shoot, nearly naked (topless is legal here) sun-worshippers avoiding tan lines, and an assembly line of washboard abs off of which you could (but shouldn't) bounce your bottle of sunscreen. Bathrooms and changing facilities are available on the beach, but don't expect to have a Cindy Crawford encounter in one of these. Most people tend to prefer using the somewhat drier, cleaner bathrooms of the restaurants on Ocean Drive.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Best Beach for Communing with Nature</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7nmGSSo3T-ZjXBI-xSbGzoLJtQLrFkJ_zIuZv9gCXgcJf7h0VPdspXlCDmpmNOe9-Xe84Ii4BYJ42lKFPs_V7ZhdGSgiWgMNPogjx5wynFWgenB2aYAdg-lBfCx4l-p2DePsEOczVgcJ4/s1600-h/Key+Biscayne.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7nmGSSo3T-ZjXBI-xSbGzoLJtQLrFkJ_zIuZv9gCXgcJf7h0VPdspXlCDmpmNOe9-Xe84Ii4BYJ42lKFPs_V7ZhdGSgiWgMNPogjx5wynFWgenB2aYAdg-lBfCx4l-p2DePsEOczVgcJ4/s400/Key+Biscayne.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426281213670278962" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is the pot of gold at the end of Key Biscayne, with over a mile of unfettered beach, a historic lighthouse, and nature trails that take you back to the days when South Florida was a tropical wilderness.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Best Swimming Beach</b></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The 85th Street Beach, along Collins Avenue, is the best place to swim away from the maddening crowds. It's one of Miami's only stretches of sand with no condos or hotels looming over sunbathers. Lifeguards patrol the area throughout the day and bathrooms are available, though they are not exactly the benchmark of cleanliness.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Best Windsurfing Beach</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZUnS-w2cO3Ra6tKHP79y8fCDSimCAoXwJ4U5716TrMUp5NApazQMU1qvKoYH95izIvUpNJ8JXNPxDPreaOil8oNDRc7G5awDEJxrVW7GiJYJhNokY-DkL-wLlA4zsaQHY1B9SMrGyR17/s1600-h/hobie-beach.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqZUnS-w2cO3Ra6tKHP79y8fCDSimCAoXwJ4U5716TrMUp5NApazQMU1qvKoYH95izIvUpNJ8JXNPxDPreaOil8oNDRc7G5awDEJxrVW7GiJYJhNokY-DkL-wLlA4zsaQHY1B9SMrGyR17/s400/hobie-beach.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426282830344854850" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Hobie Beach, on the side of the causeway leading to Key Biscayne, is not really a beach, but an inlet with predictable winds and a number of places where you can rent windsurf boards. Bathrooms are available but not exactly the cleanest.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Best Shell-Hunting Beach</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8A863hAi4HOUuHAiMsAn0s9KdEqdddoOzUV0rztDE5RUjYsz0Aa40mixojXGsLo1Es7JhyphenhyphenY4FP4EPjqB6Bn7jZulpEA4vxAovY1QIsZqDGOKRI8yImSqy1VUImXvQmSxKqP2qtZMfBQVA/s1600-h/Bal+Harbour+Beach.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8A863hAi4HOUuHAiMsAn0s9KdEqdddoOzUV0rztDE5RUjYsz0Aa40mixojXGsLo1Es7JhyphenhyphenY4FP4EPjqB6Bn7jZulpEA4vxAovY1QIsZqDGOKRI8yImSqy1VUImXvQmSxKqP2qtZMfBQVA/s400/Bal+Harbour+Beach.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426283271369731570" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">You'll find plenty of colorful shells at Bal Harbour Beach, Collins Avenue at 96th Street. There's also an exercise course and good shade -- but no lifeguards, bathrooms, or changing facilities.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Best (Ahem) All-Around Tanning Beach</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKq8YWwKOXrHZ3UAjUWV2wAgthegU4wNvvPhLfOj69MoMxMp2njeleWNaQUUG3KTp09YIvsFWbNfDQWsHoql79DaVh6l7Ig0cgeR7qE-EYlNpxasdVABFraS9ObkZhXlgZ_mVlgYJBOz7I/s1600-h/Haulover+Beach.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKq8YWwKOXrHZ3UAjUWV2wAgthegU4wNvvPhLfOj69MoMxMp2njeleWNaQUUG3KTp09YIvsFWbNfDQWsHoql79DaVh6l7Ig0cgeR7qE-EYlNpxasdVABFraS9ObkZhXlgZ_mVlgYJBOz7I/s400/Haulover+Beach.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426283592452689730" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">For that all-over tan, head to Haulover Beach, just north of the Bal Harbour border, and join nudists from around the world in a top-to-bottom tanning session. Should you choose to keep your swimsuit on, however, there are changing rooms and bathrooms.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Best Surfing Beach</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS-FhbUtvr7wGuD0pWQkjva2ECJ4uan8hgF0yix7CdN5tJg7qRr0Rsn0OyQN6F1bm2RNLxDKYOWm-AcPhB0hKfssz519dcvN0Uom0Wzc-UMHEAv9FdvnPDQrbN09QGWEp4mkAhCUHIIqXK/s1600-h/surf.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS-FhbUtvr7wGuD0pWQkjva2ECJ4uan8hgF0yix7CdN5tJg7qRr0Rsn0OyQN6F1bm2RNLxDKYOWm-AcPhB0hKfssz519dcvN0Uom0Wzc-UMHEAv9FdvnPDQrbN09QGWEp4mkAhCUHIIqXK/s400/surf.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426284201088119202" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Haulover Beach, just over the causeway from Bal Harbour, seems to get Miami's biggest swells. Go early to avoid getting mauled by the aggressive young locals prepping for Maui. Rancid bathrooms are available if you absolutely must. Surfers also like the southern tip of South Beach, not necessarily for the waves, but for the surfers themselves.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Best Scenic Beach</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SeiWatfbl2SvNkS34J8330WTD4JZY5-6Jyq70ctQWlkPKUh6EwZUHiW-Y_YY4GjRZWaX11XxgE24Ry2ceNBi7eBrMOAzqzmOuSFhlQwWrnRF7PfIRlfG4t24B3xHdQgLg-QiFfm-fDt2/s1600-h/Matheson+Hammock+Park+Beach.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2SeiWatfbl2SvNkS34J8330WTD4JZY5-6Jyq70ctQWlkPKUh6EwZUHiW-Y_YY4GjRZWaX11XxgE24Ry2ceNBi7eBrMOAzqzmOuSFhlQwWrnRF7PfIRlfG4t24B3xHdQgLg-QiFfm-fDt2/s400/Matheson+Hammock+Park+Beach.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426284327651613458" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Matheson Hammock Park Beach, at 9610 Old Cutler Rd. in South Miami (tel. 305/665-5475), is the epitome of tranquillity. And while it's scenic, it's not too much of a scene. It's a great beach for those seeking "alone time." Bathrooms and changing facilities are available.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Best Family Beach</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmg03zJ4mPnWTpFkrd1yDk1NlWHRg1xkoCAe6Ye7AMq1YMFjAHNK17ZfJ6jZVTMdNK34vRnhSV2z_2MOTgAtjubrbOlfxWiLMiGj5NIgcAtDVdpMBGhgOqsl5hh-dNq2EZbsygcK3SsXvf/s1600-h/Matheson+Hammock+Park+Beach.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmg03zJ4mPnWTpFkrd1yDk1NlWHRg1xkoCAe6Ye7AMq1YMFjAHNK17ZfJ6jZVTMdNK34vRnhSV2z_2MOTgAtjubrbOlfxWiLMiGj5NIgcAtDVdpMBGhgOqsl5hh-dNq2EZbsygcK3SsXvf/s400/Matheson+Hammock+Park+Beach.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426284620044824642" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Because of its man-made lagoon, which is fed naturally by the tidal movement of the adjacent Biscayne Bay, the waters of Matheson Hammock Park Beach are extremely calm, not to mention safe and secluded enough for families to keep an eye on the kids. Clean bathrooms are a plus.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Best Beach for Seclusion</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvVgj4HUVurYgqe0lm7j1QmM4tbPJAnOd4qocrboGu5grz5cRjrS9ATk93bvjvIcioU-gcI9lzDZD1r4NsdFHdT5FqkdydvUGkywG1h76JPbo-deetvBqvvUgQWwvgVb9qTZboKu5u3EYf/s1600-h/Virginia+Key.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvVgj4HUVurYgqe0lm7j1QmM4tbPJAnOd4qocrboGu5grz5cRjrS9ATk93bvjvIcioU-gcI9lzDZD1r4NsdFHdT5FqkdydvUGkywG1h76JPbo-deetvBqvvUgQWwvgVb9qTZboKu5u3EYf/s400/Virginia+Key.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426285165683839042" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Virginia Key on Key Biscayne is where people go when they don't want to be found. It's also incredibly picturesque. Bathrooms are decent.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Best for Gay Beachgoers: South Beach's 12th Street Beach is the place to be for Miami's best gay beach scene. Here you'll see strutting, kibitzing, and gossiping among some of Miami's most beautiful gay population. You might even find yourself lucky enough to happen upon a feisty South Beach party while you're soaking up some rays here. If you can hold it, skip the public bathroom and head over to the Palace on Ocean Drive and use their bathroom.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Transportations</span>
<br /></span></p><h2><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="mw-headline">Get in </span></span></h2> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_plane"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"><a href="http://wikitravel.org/wiki/en/index.php?title=Miami&action=edit&section=9" title="Edit section: By plane"></a></span><span class="mw-headline">By plane </span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Miami International Airport</b> (ICAO: <b>KMIA</b>, IATA: <b>MIA</b>) is located just west of the city in an unincorporated suburban area. It is an important hub for traffic between North America and Latin America, and one of the largest airports in the world. As a result, Spanish is just as likely to be understood as English. The international traffic makes MIA a large and congested place. Be sure to allow extra time when departing MIA, particularly if flying internationally, as you may face an hour-long line just to check your bags. Curbside check-in is an excellent idea. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">The predominant carrier at MIA is American Airlines, which has direct flights to most major cities in the Americas, and several European cities as well. European, Latin-American and Caribbean carriers are well-represented at MIA. The airport has no non-stop service to Asia, Africa or Oceania. The recent construction of two new terminals at MIA has helped with the airport's passenger capacities as well as the efficiency in going through customs and baggage claim. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">MIA also has several restaurants ranging from local chains such as La Carreta to national chains such as Dunkin’ Donuts, Burger King and Starbucks. Be aware that some restaurants serve beer, wine and/or cocktails. If you drink too much the airlines can refuse your boarding on a plane. MIA also has several retail stores, including several magazine stands and bookstores (including a Borders). Other retail stores include, but are not limited to, Brookstone, K-B Toys and Ron Jon Surf Shop. There is also a hotel connected to the airport. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Money can be exchanged for US dollars at the airport. Wireless internet is also available at MIA for a small fee. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Fort Lauderdale International Airport</b> (IATA: <b>FLL</b>) is 25-40 minutes north of Miami proper, depending on traffic, and does not have nearly as many international routes. It only offers a small variety. However, it is smaller and less trafficked than MIA, making customs, immigration and security a bit easier to go through. Southwest Airlines, JetBlue and other low-cost carriers generally use Miami's other airport, FLL, instead of MIA, making FLL a cheaper alternative in many cases as well. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Public transport is available to MIA and FLL. If you are arriving from FLL, there is a free shuttle to the Tri-Rail nearby train station. Tri-Rail trains connect West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale and Miami. The cheapest way to get t Miami is to take the #1 Broward County Bus to Aventura Mall and transfer to the S Miami-Dade bus to downtown Miami via South Beach. This option is inadvisable if traveling with a lot of luggage. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">At MIA, public transportation includes a free shuttle to the nearby Tri-Rail station, as well as to Metrorail and Metromover. Your best option is to take a taxi from the airport or rent a car, depending on what your stay involves (if you need to get around parts of Miami with no nearby Metrorail stations). MIA's car rental facilities are scattered around the airport and connected to the terminal by shuttle buses. FLL's facilities are more conveniently located in the parking garage adjacent to the terminals. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Currently at MIA, construction of the new Miami Intermodal Center is slated to become Miami's Grand Central station with hub connections of Amtrak, Metrorail, Tri-Rail, taxis, Metrobus, and all car-rental facilities. The M.I.C. is expected to be completed around 2009/2010. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_train"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"><a href="http://wikitravel.org/wiki/en/index.php?title=Miami&action=edit&section=10" title="Edit section: By train"></a></span><span class="mw-headline">By train </span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Amtrak's <b>Silver Service</b> operates two trains daily to Miami from New York City, Washington, D.C. and other cities along the Eastern Seaboard. The ride from New York is about 24 hours but is often subject to delays, as Amtrak uses poorer-quality freight lines south of Washington and must cope with slow freight trains along the way. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">There are frequent (at least 1 per hour) Tri-Rail trains every day to Miami from West Palm Beach, Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale on weekdays. However, on the weekends, the trains come every 2 hours. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_car"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"><a href="http://wikitravel.org/wiki/en/index.php?title=Miami&action=edit&section=11" title="Edit section: By car"></a></span><span class="mw-headline">By car </span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">There are three main highways coming into Miami. I-95 runs along the Atlantic coast of the United States and terminates in Miami. I-75 comes in from the midwestern United States and runs through Atlanta and Tampa before terminating in Miami. Florida's Turnpike is a toll road mainly useful for those driving in from Orlando. The only southbound route from Miami is US Highway 1, which runs through the Florida Keys all the way to Key West. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="Get_around"></a></span><h2><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"><a href="http://wikitravel.org/wiki/en/index.php?title=Miami&action=edit&section=12" title="Edit section: Get around"></a></span><span class="mw-headline">Get around </span></span></h2> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_bus"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"><a href="http://wikitravel.org/wiki/en/index.php?title=Miami&action=edit&section=13" title="Edit section: By bus"></a></span><span class="mw-headline">By bus </span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Miami has a large and elaborate public bus system which covers the entire county and connects to the bus system in Greater Fort Lauderdale. Recent developments have made the bus system more reliable than in the past. Even with the changes and because of high local traffic, buses tend to have a harder time remaining on schedule. However, buses run often enough through each route so as not to be a nuisance. Schedules and routes are available from the Miami-Dade Transit website or by calling +1 305 770-3131. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_metrorail"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"><a href="http://wikitravel.org/wiki/en/index.php?title=Miami&action=edit&section=14" title="Edit section: By metrorail"></a></span><span class="mw-headline">By metrorail </span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Metrorail</b> is a single-line elevated rail system serving Miami and surrounding areas running 22.4mi with 22 stations . Due to low funding, Metrorail has not been greatly expanded since its opening in 1984, but serves many areas of tourist interest. These include downtown Miami, Dadeland Mall, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Lowe Art Museum, Miami Museum of Science, Village at Merrick Park and many other nearby shopping areas. Coconut Grove and downtown Coral Gables can be reached via short shuttle bus from various stations. Metrorail operates between roughly 5AM and midnight, with a bus serving all Metrorail stations operating in the overnight hours, effectively providing 24-hour service. Fare is $2 per ride ($1 for persons with disabilities or on Medicare) and a monthly pass is available for $100. Tokens, exact change, or a bus-to-rail transfer ticket are required for all fare gates. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">A northern expansion of the Metrorail, the 'Orange Line', was given over $4.3 billion in funding in the 2009 Federal "Stimulus Package" and should therefore be opened around 2012-14. This new line will more than double the length of Metrorail (adding 24.4mi)—connecting it with Miami International Airport, Dolphins Stadium, Florida International University, and the suburbs of Miami Gardens and Opa-locka—and add a "Miami Intermodal Center as a focal point of all Miami-area mass transit. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_metromover"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"><a href="http://wikitravel.org/wiki/en/index.php?title=Miami&action=edit&section=15" title="Edit section: By metromover"></a></span><span class="mw-headline">By metromover </span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Downtown Miami is served by a free elevated people mover system known as <b>Metromover</b>, which connects to Metrorail at two stations at Government Center in the central business district and at Brickell Station in Brickell. Metromover is free of charge and is the most efficient way to move around Downtown Miami. It is a great way to take a rest when walking around downtown, and a great time to take pictures of the skyscrapers and growing Miami skyline from above. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Currently a funding boost has set forth an expansion for the Metrorail system including a connection to Miami International Airport to be operating by 2010. Further expansion to the north toward Dolphin Stadium (the home of the NFL's Miami Dolphins) is expected to be operating by 2012. A light rail line to Miami Beach is also under development, as well as the Miami Streetcar connecting Downtown Miami to the Media and Entertainment District as well as Midtown Miami. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_taxi"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"><a href="http://wikitravel.org/wiki/en/index.php?title=Miami&action=edit&section=16" title="Edit section: By taxi"></a></span><span class="mw-headline">By taxi </span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Taxis are generally expensive with a surcharge of $2.50 for the pick-up and an additional $0.40 for each sixth of a mile traveled. Almost all cab companies in the area have pre-determined rates for travel into the barrier islands of Miami Beach and other beach and nightclub communities popular with tourists which can range from $30-$60 depending on arrival location. For example, South Beach may be the most expensive while a residential neighborhood in Miami Beach may be the cheapest. The charge is the same regardless of pick-up location on the mainland. All taxis are fitted with maps of the barrier islands which state the cost per location. The same applies for passengers leaving the islands onto the mainland, though normal rates apply for person traveling by taxi within the islands or within the mainland. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Service is available throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and Monroe counties regardless of pick-up location. The normal service charges apply for these four counties, but it is wise to ask for a pre-determined price beforehand if leaving the county as this will in most cases turn out to be cheaper and most drivers are willing to negotiate when leaving the county. If you wish to be taxied to a location outside of those four counties, you must negotiate a price and advise the cab company first. Drivers may refuse to drive outside of the metropolitan area if they are not advised to do so beforehand. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Usually you will have to call a cab company and request a pick-up. Taxis operated by the major companies are <b>not normally allowed to pick up passengers at random locations for safety and legal reasons</b> except at MIA, the Port of Miami and train stations. Some individual taxi drivers will not follow this rule, however. You can try hailing a taxi in the street. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>All taxi drivers must have a valid license to operate</b>. It is uncommon to hear of crimes involving unlicensed taxis anywhere in the metropolitan area since Dade County keeps track of all taxi activity in and around Miami and cooperates with other counties in getting this information. If you enter a cab and do not see a valid license placed in front of the passenger's seat, you should not enter the taxi and instead call another cab company regardless of what the driver says. If you willingly enter a taxi without a license or with an expired license and there is an incident or accident, it is possible that you may not be able to hold the driver accountable by law. When entering a cab you should make note of the driver's name, license number and cab number if any problems arise during the trip. This information should be easily found inside the taxi.It may be able to help you identify the cab driver to the police or the cab company. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_car_2"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection">By </span><span class="mw-headline">car </span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Unless you plan to stay downtown or in a single location elsewhere, you will find that a car is very convenient in Miami, and car rentals are cheap in comparison to other major US cities. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">You can find cheap car rentals off terminal from the Miami Airport from such companies as E-Z Rent-A-Car and Ace Rent A Car. The major car rental companies can be found in terminal be can be often more expensive for the same service and vehicles. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Surface roads in Miami are usually easy to navigate. The area's roads are designed around a grid system, where most roads are numbered based on their distance from the city center. The two main axis roads are Miami Avenue (running north to south) and Flagler Street (running east to west). These two roads intersect in downtown Miami, the county's symbolic center. All avenues run north to south, while all streets run east to west. For example, the address, "9500 NW 30th Street" would be at the intersection of NW 30th Street (to the west of Miami Avenue, and 30 blocks north of Flagler Street) and NW 95th Avenue (north of Flagler Street, and 95 blocks west of Miami Avenue). Most roads in Miami conform to this nomenclature, but due to the more than 30 municipalities within Miami-Dade County, there are a few exceptions to be aware of. Examples include Coral Gables, the Coconut Grove section of Miami (city proper), Miami Lakes, and Hialeah. Hialeah is particularly notorious since it uses it's own grid system, in addition to the overall county system. For example, NW 103rd Street is also marked as E 49th Street, or W 49th Street in Hialeah. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Note that if you cross into Broward County, the roads will be numbered based on their distance from the Fort Lauderdale city center, which is generally the same going east-west but will be very different going north-south. Most of the municipalities in Broward County use their own limited grid systems as well. Some street names also change at the county line. The coastline highway, A1A, is known as "Collins Avenue" in Miami, but becomes "Ocean Drive" in Broward. Likewise, "Red Road" in Miami becomes "Flamingo Road" in Broward. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Miami has four primary expressways. In addition to I-95 and Florida’s Turnpike, there is state highway <b>836</b> (also known as the <b>Dolphin Expressway</b>) and state highway <b>826</b> (also known as the <b>Palmetto Expressway</b>). The Dolphin Expressway runs west from downtown Miami along the edge of Miami International Airport. The Palmetto Expressway and Florida's Turnpike form "F"-shaped loops around the city. The Turnpike continues north, roughly parallel to I-95, and will take you to Orlando if you keep driving. I-95, the Palmetto and the Turnpike intersect at a junction in North Miami called the <b>Golden Glades</b>. You may find driving in the Glades challenging, especially if you have little experience driving in it. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">New visitors to Miami should be aware that the area's drivers are particularly aggressive. AutoVantage.com's Road Rage Survey has rated Miami drivers the rudest in the country for a third year in a row. This shouldn't discourage anyone from using the roadways, but a passive approach to Miami driving can save you from an unwanted exchange with another driver, or even worse an accident. Posted speed limits are ignored by most drivers, especially on larger roads with lower speed limits. Two examples are I-95 and state road 826 (The Palmetto Expressway). The eastern portion of state road 836 (The Dolphin Expressway) between Miami International Airport and downtown Miami handles traffic that exceeds its capacity, and contains several left-hand exits, including the eastbound off-ramp to Lejuene Road (NW 42nd Avenue), which is the posted route, and the quickest route to Miami International Airport. </span></p> QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-10971265730756990382010-01-13T08:57:00.000-08:002010-01-13T09:32:21.849-08:00Versailles "The must see sights in Palace of Versailles"
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQbKgzZP8qTGgjTmfK-B3wNoK3CIdhls0WKQu04xwpXrDHMTIIory1Oh2FqVctTBPdTR5viB5_cdw-aCPTMaEfbA86jAm4vPd5AMz8SoXucRxWBJPGflVAR-OZesZ_6BHURceLNgYl9_zC/s1600-h/versailles.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 277px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQbKgzZP8qTGgjTmfK-B3wNoK3CIdhls0WKQu04xwpXrDHMTIIory1Oh2FqVctTBPdTR5viB5_cdw-aCPTMaEfbA86jAm4vPd5AMz8SoXucRxWBJPGflVAR-OZesZ_6BHURceLNgYl9_zC/s400/versailles.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426278167747398530" border="0" /></a>
<br /><b>Versailles</b><span title="Pronunciation in IPA" class="IPA"></span>, a city reno<span><span>wned for its château, the Palace of Versailles, was the de facto capital of the kingdom of France for over a century, from 1682 to 1789. It is now a wealthy suburb of Paris and remains an important administrative and judicial center. Located in the western suburbs of the French capital, 17.1 km (10.6 mi) from the center of Paris, the commune of Versailles is the préfecture (administrative seat) of the Yvelines department. According to the 2006 census, the population of the city is 89,490 inhabitants, down from a peak of 94,145 in 1975. Versailles is popularly known for numerous treaty's such as Treaty of Paris (1783), which ended the American Revolutionary War and the Treaty of Versailles, which ended</span></span> World War I.
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<br /></span><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 2.4 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { size: 8.27in 11.69in; margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --> </style> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Château de Versailles</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7iBUNqMvDcGUhDEh7rq1h6y3_Y3u9nO0s3slMjTl7ZvYgpIiVYP1E0K33dhXIpP5M7LRVsiwCQFwM2cLCYFQJotEEc8Wd6AxPBci333FYGut4Qra4kw82ztHV7cvBoyRV-3yyeIkEjn7H/s1600-h/Ch%C3%A2teau+de+Versailles.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7iBUNqMvDcGUhDEh7rq1h6y3_Y3u9nO0s3slMjTl7ZvYgpIiVYP1E0K33dhXIpP5M7LRVsiwCQFwM2cLCYFQJotEEc8Wd6AxPBci333FYGut4Qra4kw82ztHV7cvBoyRV-3yyeIkEjn7H/s400/Ch%C3%A2teau+de+Versailles.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426270491216710994" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">A small hunting lodge in Versailles, originally built for Louis XIII by Philibert Le Roy in 1631-34, was transformed by Louis XIV into the present huge and magnificent palace between 1661 and 1710. First Louis Le Vau (d. 1670) extended the original building by adding two wings on the east side, enclosing the Cour de Marbre. Then Jules Hardouin-Mansart, appointed court architect in 1676, added an additional story to Le Vau's wings and built the Galerie des Glaces (Hall of Mirrors) and the long north and south wings on the garden front. Finally came the two Neo-Classical pavilions flanking the Cour Royale, by Gabriel (18th c.) and Dufour (1820). The whole gigantic building is said to have cost 500million gold francs in addition to the compulsory labor of the peasants, and up to 36,000 men were employed on its construction. Charles Le Brun was responsible for the interior decoration, André Le Nôtre for the landscaping of the park and gardens. When complete the Château accommodated a population of 10,000.
<br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRcWfERU3WEx92REGJL9ifMvleZ8OixhwpDGQCrO-87UuU4UpAXQT8HIdWJt6m86SoRdSeagLLWN0C-A-hBnpAD0DvjWNOyE2c1R3CGRUplhKD0USODLQdbyoNa6177ZjJtyBSGSMQczO8/s1600-h/Ch%C3%A2teau+de+Versailles.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRcWfERU3WEx92REGJL9ifMvleZ8OixhwpDGQCrO-87UuU4UpAXQT8HIdWJt6m86SoRdSeagLLWN0C-A-hBnpAD0DvjWNOyE2c1R3CGRUplhKD0USODLQdbyoNa6177ZjJtyBSGSMQczO8/s400/Ch%C3%A2teau+de+Versailles.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426270149980145330" border="0" /></a></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br />Louis XIV's successors made no major changes or additions to the Château: Louis XV had some rooms decorated in Roccoco style and built the neo-classical Petit Trianon, and the gardens were extended by Louis XV and XVI. For something over a century (1682-1789) Versailles was the residence of the French kings. The principles of absolutism required that the high nobility should be in constant attendance at court, and Versailles - the Château and the park - provided a splendid setting for the display of the absolute power of the French monarchy.
<br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglCCdZNtmIYVvZKwV2vZ7fH7DbY0UU27f_dH1KUafu5A0B2pM_EL3I_KTP-UcopjB1EleH-gK6HXrMjubVPjCKOLMDVtuPKrpBh1VKbwHyYf8r9k4vbsD91PbJyzPaRTLfzUxsrOwStJQo/s1600-h/Ch%C3%A2teau+de+Versailles.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 212px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglCCdZNtmIYVvZKwV2vZ7fH7DbY0UU27f_dH1KUafu5A0B2pM_EL3I_KTP-UcopjB1EleH-gK6HXrMjubVPjCKOLMDVtuPKrpBh1VKbwHyYf8r9k4vbsD91PbJyzPaRTLfzUxsrOwStJQo/s400/Ch%C3%A2teau+de+Versailles.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426270013252958690" border="0" /></a></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br />In 1789 the States-General of France were summoned to meet at Versailles, and the third estate (the ordinary people) joined the other two (nobility and clergy) to form a National Assembly. It was the first step on the road to revolution. On October 5-6 Louis XVI was carried off from Versailles and compelled to take up his residence in the Tuileries Palace. Thereafter Versailles lost its former importance. During the Franco-Prussian War (1870-71) Versailles was occupied on September 19 1870 and remained the German headquarters until March 6 1871. On January 18 1871 the German Empire was proclaimed in the Hall of MIrrors. After the First World War the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28 1919, again in the Hall of Mirrors. In June 1978 a bomb attack by Breton separatists caused serious damage to the Château.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Arboretum de Chevrèloup </b></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh537wVcx0gIFKFyoSohjNSqeZ23tkYwtTt5cbdkkFaBbxLbkf3b_yjJCh3gF-QWXfP9qOxmgZ1hk7HqAj6JbJYcTTkGpLjZeKErLnI5YNbE2K84zGR4mOXhB8bNrV8B3hw87YXKZX9x1yF/s1600-h/Arboretum+de+Chevr%C3%A8loup.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh537wVcx0gIFKFyoSohjNSqeZ23tkYwtTt5cbdkkFaBbxLbkf3b_yjJCh3gF-QWXfP9qOxmgZ1hk7HqAj6JbJYcTTkGpLjZeKErLnI5YNbE2K84zGR4mOXhB8bNrV8B3hw87YXKZX9x1yF/s400/Arboretum+de+Chevr%C3%A8loup.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426270740122280162" border="0" /></a></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Originally the location of Louis XV's deer park, this arboretum now houses a wide variety of hardy trees. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Désert de Rez</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCLnfs0XmQjzpWFXCBSLdDQon4HL4dIYW3pLxIVJLGTsIklJCSaVC7NR8jbB3LHoyXqlwA7ZXQesKLSwxbEvc9xbaSrb-g7JJI7YFXwjD6jw1lWt2CQ5y8yALQeZDvFGJL3AmTl6rkmYL/s1600-h/D%C3%A9sert+de+Rez.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCLnfs0XmQjzpWFXCBSLdDQon4HL4dIYW3pLxIVJLGTsIklJCSaVC7NR8jbB3LHoyXqlwA7ZXQesKLSwxbEvc9xbaSrb-g7JJI7YFXwjD6jw1lWt2CQ5y8yALQeZDvFGJL3AmTl6rkmYL/s400/D%C3%A9sert+de+Rez.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426271108841896962" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Between Paris and Versailles, on the edge of the Forest of Marly, is the Désert de Rez, covering an area of some 40 ha/100 ac. As originally laid out in the latter part of the 18th C this park was the realization of a dream by a certain Monsieur de Monville, who desired to create a philosopher's park in which those walking in it would be stimulated to reflections either cheerful or elegiac. He had his architect, Le Rouge, build up low hills, divert streams and plant rare plants and shade-giving trees, and after six years' work he saw his dream realized in 1780. Since then nature has reclaimed its own, but the Désert de Rez is still a jewel among Paris's parks. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Salon de Vénus</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4LZ14LiWC1brFdcoss9Twb20cjEgCrnQ_XI-WK86v1C_7cYd4e8-sCP3utdOz6qUkG7VnzVZKwv8_NBbldvRjPZ681uZsQkx8vbyfTiXe3tfeB-1vxIJ1E_wbI-HW8OcPioNTqDTQl5C/s1600-h/Salon+de+V%C3%A9nus.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 226px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4LZ14LiWC1brFdcoss9Twb20cjEgCrnQ_XI-WK86v1C_7cYd4e8-sCP3utdOz6qUkG7VnzVZKwv8_NBbldvRjPZ681uZsQkx8vbyfTiXe3tfeB-1vxIJ1E_wbI-HW8OcPioNTqDTQl5C/s400/Salon+de+V%C3%A9nus.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426271312296743378" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Salon de Vénus at Versailles, like the Salon de Diane, has preserved the austere, cold marble decor of the 1660s. Originally all seven of the Grands Appartements were in this style, which reflected the young Louis XIV's striving for power, glory and a great name to leave to posterity - always with the model of antiquity in mind. This is seen in the marble walls and columns, the statues in the antique style, including one of Louis XIV as a Roman Emperor, and the ceiling paintings with their representations of Titus and Berenice, Anthony and Cleopatra, Jason and Medea, Theseus and Ariadne, Europa and Jupiter, Amphitrite and Poseidon. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Versailles Park</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMm_24fKDB2hYF4DdB-6yQ9Zar4Iy_mpeMjXSh-rA6-LUCnVWmMZ1FegKgIM2ltBAmqrvzka1uVDCjYN18wZYD779Pi_nBjWJ2NH8wqJUUp6ygdEerSQpigHK9DSDpxuN3TkAec8DzGbJZ/s1600-h/versailles+park.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMm_24fKDB2hYF4DdB-6yQ9Zar4Iy_mpeMjXSh-rA6-LUCnVWmMZ1FegKgIM2ltBAmqrvzka1uVDCjYN18wZYD779Pi_nBjWJ2NH8wqJUUp6ygdEerSQpigHK9DSDpxuN3TkAec8DzGbJZ/s400/versailles+park.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426271582330647074" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="s_lname"></a>(Local Name: Parc de Versailles) The Château and the Park of Versailles form a unity: without the Château the park would lack a focal point and lose its function as an extension of the grand state apartments within the Château, while without the park the Château would seem pent up within itself, with no room to expand into a wider setting. This is borne out by the fact that the plans for the park were completed before the final plans for the Hall of Mirrors and the side wings of the Château had taken shape.
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<br />The Park of Versailles, covering an area of more than 800 hectares/2,000 acres, is the finest example of 17th century French landscape gardening. Its creator, André Le Nôtre (1613- 1700), son of a gardener at the Tuileries, had previously worked in the Tuileries Gardens and designed the park at Vaux-le-Vicomte, but Versailles was his masterpiece. The characteristic features of the French gardens of the 17th century, their symmetry and their taming of nature into geometric forms, were in tune with the ideals of the French classical period, which saw in such creations an expression of man's dominance over nature. The relationship between the palace and the park, conceived as a wider area for the display of royal power, is seen here in its fundamental significance: the monumental Château symbolizes the monarch's absolute power over men, while the park reflects his image as the master of nature. This is at its most apparent in the Bassins and the Grand Canal, where artificial means are used to ensure that the water is always still.
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<br />In the 18th century, during the reign of Louis XVI, the gardens round the Petit Trianon were laid out in the English style. The contrast between the two styles is very marked: the English-style park was an artificial arrangement of "unspoiled" nature, offering the possibility of acting out "real" rural life in the setting of a miniature village.
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<br />The Grand and Petit Trianons, miniature palaces set in gardens, were the only places where the French kings could have any privacy. Elsewhere in the park and in the Château they were subject, like everyone else at court, to the rules of etiquette and ceremony.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Allée Royale</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5CsvH4b905dUUBt5BzxvBGdiI-SP62CTVHoR3OGlhs_RvsUeJm2p9u7yCwhtVR471D5tz3U5DzD_bztu4dWcAYspLZ7uMw0SuyW6TWlNtiUZ5RSGF-7T_5GLJqFhh__JChdj3ccVx7fE/s1600-h/Tapis+Vert.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 223px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5CsvH4b905dUUBt5BzxvBGdiI-SP62CTVHoR3OGlhs_RvsUeJm2p9u7yCwhtVR471D5tz3U5DzD_bztu4dWcAYspLZ7uMw0SuyW6TWlNtiUZ5RSGF-7T_5GLJqFhh__JChdj3ccVx7fE/s400/Tapis+Vert.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426272015239002146" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Allée Royale, also known as the Tapis Vert ("Green Carpet"), links the Bassin de Latone and the Bassin d'Apollon along the main longitudinal axis of the park at Versailles. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Bosquet de la Salle de Bal</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMhCpyK1k80F2zYrJ8m-iozH2teK6xxJhTwPyoDjRtX1MeMpiTp1gEjt-gUBf1pLdSnYvlq_RSpfnmnA8HPivKIctlnuZb8BBaePUUCjCpjURY57nhWVUuBBn-2AABLbt1yqRhR8QtdMTe/s1600-h/Bosquet+de+la+Salle+de+Bal.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMhCpyK1k80F2zYrJ8m-iozH2teK6xxJhTwPyoDjRtX1MeMpiTp1gEjt-gUBf1pLdSnYvlq_RSpfnmnA8HPivKIctlnuZb8BBaePUUCjCpjURY57nhWVUuBBn-2AABLbt1yqRhR8QtdMTe/s400/Bosquet+de+la+Salle+de+Bal.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426272163537159938" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="s_lname1"></a>(Local Name: Salle de Bal) The Bosquet de la Salle de Bal (Ballroom), a kind of amphitheater for acting and dancing, can be seen only when the grandes eaux art. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Bassin d'Apollon
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBGXoBeTvTFl9aJUJx3Lp_WDOrNHyd2K7wz7OfYir3dR-YrwsffacMyfpBCQou73BJHgaNXiG31wvFgWXv2_fZSPATgEOQas8S3U4qoXgQsgcidmEX_hbPIVp5bhdDkSjgNCvXW7X7YCa/s1600-h/Bassin+d%27Apollon.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSBGXoBeTvTFl9aJUJx3Lp_WDOrNHyd2K7wz7OfYir3dR-YrwsffacMyfpBCQou73BJHgaNXiG31wvFgWXv2_fZSPATgEOQas8S3U4qoXgQsgcidmEX_hbPIVp5bhdDkSjgNCvXW7X7YCa/s400/Bassin+d%27Apollon.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426272267126955266" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The figure of Apollo at Versailles on the chariot of the sun (by Jean-Baptiste Tuby, 1670) is an allegorical allusion to Louis XIV, the Sun King. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Bassin de Neptune</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG8BM8X477AJyY3TsA1QMdrvj-hNC7ue9BPXjpj-KdSAL7ECIuyirjGi_CyvBB5EdMgjlhAJKvsXPL-qO9zAUACSw2ytqwEyLaAaDCn7zQeRdGZqx41o8alOlv3cKoxKOCQH8KP37-zPd7/s1600-h/Bassin+de+Neptune.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG8BM8X477AJyY3TsA1QMdrvj-hNC7ue9BPXjpj-KdSAL7ECIuyirjGi_CyvBB5EdMgjlhAJKvsXPL-qO9zAUACSw2ytqwEyLaAaDCn7zQeRdGZqx41o8alOlv3cKoxKOCQH8KP37-zPd7/s400/Bassin+de+Neptune.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426272723790376050" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Bassin de Neptune at Versailles is an artificial pool created by Le Nôtre in 1679-84, with sculptured figures (by Adam, Bouchardon and Lemoyne, 1740 onwards) of Neptune with his trident and his wife Amphitrite with a sceptre, flanked by Oceanus on a unicorn and Proteus with sea creatures and plants. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Bosquet des Bains d'Apollon</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-g8EeTtcGJE0BRVnSi5RXS_aRIYXLWyYmK20BDZbTzBq0DTCFZejbHUJ7f6s-iFQo3OrfjPHlqq-3TNHXKOKruBtbKamUDEBk81MP3F6eGc363jE7v2YqBR307gfJGzHm7bCdo2aI8jZ3/s1600-h/Bosquet+des+Bains+d%27Apollon.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-g8EeTtcGJE0BRVnSi5RXS_aRIYXLWyYmK20BDZbTzBq0DTCFZejbHUJ7f6s-iFQo3OrfjPHlqq-3TNHXKOKruBtbKamUDEBk81MP3F6eGc363jE7v2YqBR307gfJGzHm7bCdo2aI8jZ3/s400/Bosquet+des+Bains+d%27Apollon.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426273009754669218" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The romantic setting of the famous Apollo group was a later addition to Versailles. On the northwestern edge of this bosquet is the Ile des Enfants, with a group of children playing (1710) which dates from the time of the aging Louis XIV, who wanted to see "more youth" around him. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Bosquet des Dômes
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiTfiMK0XTZP0DYjSBGWsZ7pSPtaZNacJuRFrjRqJkqrcSbgoJxhlNZWxhqzogNoTNZfNI2CBHZvQuuWAPpDofoTrhbWyfszFNFQ6S31_jAEXfX2SULnV7-bc4J0mDa97uQisMml0hJmM2/s1600-h/Bosquet+des+D%C3%B4mes.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiTfiMK0XTZP0DYjSBGWsZ7pSPtaZNacJuRFrjRqJkqrcSbgoJxhlNZWxhqzogNoTNZfNI2CBHZvQuuWAPpDofoTrhbWyfszFNFQ6S31_jAEXfX2SULnV7-bc4J0mDa97uQisMml0hJmM2/s400/Bosquet+des+D%C3%B4mes.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426273330409253970" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Of the handsome pavilions in the Bosquet des Dômes in Versailles there remain only foundations, statues and reliefs. In the center of the little wood is a group by Gaspard Marsy, "The Titans". </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>The Colonnade</b></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Colonnade (1685) at Versailles is a circular arcade of marble Ionic columns designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart as an elegant setting for festivities. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Grand Canal</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEXcH4uktiodUttTsX7bpOoqOK4hXuo3pjrqIVyP2MeFg1lE7QsA9CC0AtaRVn5wB2sCQvLDnwZYoFeYCUYqXFIKKsjtF5jAm93VDmmPt-FAcI0QYoiY4sFBuqAHwzqML1iG3HnKVlx56z/s1600-h/grand+canal.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEXcH4uktiodUttTsX7bpOoqOK4hXuo3pjrqIVyP2MeFg1lE7QsA9CC0AtaRVn5wB2sCQvLDnwZYoFeYCUYqXFIKKsjtF5jAm93VDmmPt-FAcI0QYoiY4sFBuqAHwzqML1iG3HnKVlx56z/s400/grand+canal.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426274986940874594" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">In the time of Louis XIV gilded gondolas presented to the king by the Venetian Republic sailed on the waters of the Grand Canal at Versailles and the Petit Canal at right angles to it. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Grand Trianon</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDJxMTI11yQ3CZdOXuy21otNWHLZTn1mJoGL41GTUQEkKwLseKssMMFpSEsxBMhqBnNuQogfAngYonrdKa9sbKxwm85yGgqQ_dqpyhgCoquU32REskDJcAG1imuNSucqXri6L_lN0PU-S/s1600-h/grand+trianon.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 278px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDJxMTI11yQ3CZdOXuy21otNWHLZTn1mJoGL41GTUQEkKwLseKssMMFpSEsxBMhqBnNuQogfAngYonrdKa9sbKxwm85yGgqQ_dqpyhgCoquU32REskDJcAG1imuNSucqXri6L_lN0PU-S/s400/grand+trianon.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426274166206065842" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Grand Trianon at Versailles was built between 1678 and 1688 for Louis XIV by Jules Hardouin-Mansart and Robert de Cotte. Here the king had a private space, free from court etiquette. The little palace has two wings, one for Louis and the other for his favorite Madame de Maintenon. The Grand Trianon, which had fallen into disrepair, was restored by Napoleon. The interior is partly Baroque and partly Empire (furniture).
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<br />Faced in pink marble, this garden lies immediately west of the Trianon château on raised terraces. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Hameau de la Reine</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpY0_7ZU5ZAjZd_cSuIXJbciRZB8eEKl0Ggdo-4rcAT49or6RQo6m1NQUOnmA2M3_nyrcPbuDwWV-4wBdK_EATN4s2HSM5GILsBA0mp2Qk0aoB0KCx8BnqbDXSgw7pz2UfQa3sjkELTmUL/s1600-h/Hameau+de+la+Reine.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpY0_7ZU5ZAjZd_cSuIXJbciRZB8eEKl0Ggdo-4rcAT49or6RQo6m1NQUOnmA2M3_nyrcPbuDwWV-4wBdK_EATN4s2HSM5GILsBA0mp2Qk0aoB0KCx8BnqbDXSgw7pz2UfQa3sjkELTmUL/s400/Hameau+de+la+Reine.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426275131038662978" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">An English-style garden was laid out for Marie- Antoinette on the site of Louis XV's botanical garden at Versailles, and in it was built a miniature hamlet, with a farm, a dairy, a mill and a dovecot. In this area too are the Temple de l'Amour (Temple of Love, 1778), the Belvédère (an octagonal pavilion of 1777), the Théâtre de la Reine (1780) and the Pavillon Français (by Jacques-Ange Gabriel, 1750). </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Musée des Voitures</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1IPZnSMhNawkdwDbA8qkrzMhXzU9BULwP1bFdd9zGqrl7rL2jmz5IEBJj8arRzXgeq0XyVDEV3fxi5ce4TVNvooV5NM4PsaKEZMSZFvrOT1jV5KXNCmQ0EzW5I6eqy9qUq5s0AhQdRXSi/s1600-h/Mus%C3%A9e+des+Voitures.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 296px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1IPZnSMhNawkdwDbA8qkrzMhXzU9BULwP1bFdd9zGqrl7rL2jmz5IEBJj8arRzXgeq0XyVDEV3fxi5ce4TVNvooV5NM4PsaKEZMSZFvrOT1jV5KXNCmQ0EzW5I6eqy9qUq5s0AhQdRXSi/s400/Mus%C3%A9e+des+Voitures.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426274804585884530" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Carriage Museum at Versailles contains a collection of state coaches, sleighs, sedan chairs and harness of the Baroque period. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Parterres
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfWwXdP2GjT4ZbOgPMSpQoQxMHcOYmxOrL4vNg9nD9zimr-PQKW8b_-VW_uXfJJgK_dPlqi0nc_z2XEH_7Rk1tE8RgwFtKI7NPwbw8YDcMwU724YwGHd9sE0bgbrk6qwS9w59A3BvWOWw0/s1600-h/Parterres.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfWwXdP2GjT4ZbOgPMSpQoQxMHcOYmxOrL4vNg9nD9zimr-PQKW8b_-VW_uXfJJgK_dPlqi0nc_z2XEH_7Rk1tE8RgwFtKI7NPwbw8YDcMwU724YwGHd9sE0bgbrk6qwS9w59A3BvWOWw0/s400/Parterres.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426278476573116706" border="0" /></a> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Parterres (open terraces) at Versailles extend in front of the stone terrace a few steps higher, on which are four bronze statues of Bacchus, Apollo, Mercury and Silenus and two handsome marble vases with reliefs by Antoine Coysevox depicting the war with Turkey and the peace treaties of Aix- la-Chapelle and Nijmegen.
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<br />On the Parterre du Nord are 24 statues, in groups of four, representing cosmic forces - the seasons of the year, the times of day, the elements, the continents, the humors, the genres of literature. On the middle parterre, the Parterre d'Eau, are two pools with 24 bronze figures personifying the rivers of France. The southern part of the Parterre du Midi has sumptuous displays of flowers. Below the Parterres is the Orangery (1684-86), the central gallery of which is 155m/170yds long. Beyond it is the Pièce d'Eau des Suisses, a lake constructed by the royal Swiss Guard. On the Parterre de Latone is a pool with a sculpture group depicting Latona or Leto, Zeus's wife, and her children Diana and Apollo fleeing from the wicked Lycian peasants, whom Zeus punishes by turning them into frogs.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Petit Trianon</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirp2mQNuxcqnbkNOt-mMXgwsSA6ThaysVJ-OS_GHVN4yqSCRfcGrmmPnHirGN4R5bx0kNYPD67MGL18o7ddMbDQgvw5fxxOs63V8VB1z20tEdFAjRxQ8QrUUg3yGXzwdysXRm9roCfv2Cl/s1600-h/Petit+Trianon.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirp2mQNuxcqnbkNOt-mMXgwsSA6ThaysVJ-OS_GHVN4yqSCRfcGrmmPnHirGN4R5bx0kNYPD67MGL18o7ddMbDQgvw5fxxOs63V8VB1z20tEdFAjRxQ8QrUUg3yGXzwdysXRm9roCfv2Cl/s400/Petit+Trianon.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426278325969409842" border="0" /></a></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Petit Trianon at Versailles was built by Jacques-Ange Gabriel in 1763-67 for Louis XV's favorites. Louis XVI later presented it to Marie-Antoinette.
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<br />A landscaped garden of romantic nature with wandering paths, bubbling streams and rustic bridges.
<br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Transportations</span>
<br /></span></p><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="mw-headline">By train</span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">It takes about 40 minutes to reach Versailles from Paris. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">There are three different train stations in Versailles: <i>Versailles Rive Gauche</i>, <i>Versailles Rive Droite</i> and <i>Versailles Chantiers</i>. <i>Versailles Rive Gauche</i> is the one closest to the Palace (5 minutes by walk), so this is probably the one you want, but you might end up in another station depending on where you come from. </span></p> <ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>RER C</b> line, direction <i>Versailles Rive Gauche</i> (train called <b>VICK</b>), get off at <i>Versailles Rive Gauche</i> station. Be careful <b>not</b> to get off at <i>Viroflay Rive Gauche</i>! The name looks somewhat the same, but this is not the same station! Another branch of the RER C, direction <i>Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines</i>, stops at <i>Versailles Chantiers</i>. </span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Paris Montparnasse</b>: you can take a train to Versailles at <i>Gare Montparnasse</i>, but it will stop at <i>Versailles Chantiers</i>. <i>Versailles Rive Gauche</i> station is only accessible via RER C. </span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Paris Saint Lazare</b>: suburban trains stop at <i>Versailles Rive Droite</i>. </span></li></ul> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">both Stations are about a 5 minute walk from the entrance of Versailles
<br /></span></p><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="mw-headline">By bus</span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Route 171 travels between <i>Pont de Sèvres</i> (at the end of <i>Métro</i> line 9) to Versailles. The bus journey from the station to the Chateau takes approximately 30 minutes. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_bike"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection">B</span><span class="mw-headline">y bike</span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">It's a nice bike ride from Paris via Bois de Bologne and Parc St Cloud. </span> </p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="Get_around"></a></span><h2><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">Get around</span></span></h2> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The main city is easily traversable on foot, however a good network of buses run throughout. Once inside the palace it's possible to hire both bikes and battery-powered golf carts (see section below). </span></p><p></p>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-82658708157944121692010-01-13T08:11:00.000-08:002010-01-13T08:38:45.851-08:00Giza "Must Do and Great sightseeing in the Ancient Pyramid City"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKWKTcKgBHObYPcTarjL0fJKynFk3fiAT-wL7X3CZdHwFTvH5XGt2NSf-FatrY-rUofkoC2uetg64wj7mDjOOSnmr-3Asukf8nGYKYpoMf_qCHKW8NCRm12JkascyUr0oBeeoXYqFqmPQs/s1600-h/giza.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKWKTcKgBHObYPcTarjL0fJKynFk3fiAT-wL7X3CZdHwFTvH5XGt2NSf-FatrY-rUofkoC2uetg64wj7mDjOOSnmr-3Asukf8nGYKYpoMf_qCHKW8NCRm12JkascyUr0oBeeoXYqFqmPQs/s400/giza.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426263812548184498" border="0" /></a>
<br /><p><b>Giza</b> or <b>Gizah</b> <span lang="ar"></span> is the third largest city in Egypt. Being located on the west bank of the Nile river, some 20 km southwest of central Cairo. Along with Shubra El-Kheima, Cairo and Helwan, the 4 cities form the Province of Greater Cairo metropolis. The city of Giza is the capital of the Giza Governorate, and is located near the northeast border of this governorate in coordinates. It is located right on the banks of the River Nile. The city's population was 2,681,863 in the 2006 national census, while the governate had 6,272,571 at the same census. Its large population makes it the second largest suburb in the world, tied with Incheon, Korea and Quezon City, Philippines, second only to Yokohama, Japan.</p> <p>Giza is most famous as the location of the Giza Plateau: the site of some of the most impressive ancient monuments in the world, including a complex of ancient Egyptian royal mortuary and sacred structures, including the Great Sphinx, the Great Pyramid of Giza, and a number of other large pyramids and temples. The plateau and its monuments have been recorded in the Giza Plateau Mapping Project run by Ancient Egypt Research Associates, directed by Dr. Mark Lehner.[1] AERA's 2009 field season was recorded in a blog.</p> The Great Pyramid of Giza at one time was advocated (1884) as the location for the Prime Meridian, a reference point used for determining a base longitude.
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<br /></span><meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 2.4 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { size: 8.27in 11.69in; margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } TD P { margin-bottom: 0in } TH P { margin-bottom: 0in } H3 { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --> </style> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>The Pyramid of Cheops</b></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRftJhd_TPUtYcEHIAaqzcrrreyVTBbYnqo5v5tv2fHKuehq5vrdaqcPoix6lMwQDtLSGqRYC3S_2aFmkxw_lhIpI4uCWO9UWKWytqpMws3yhYTRhQBOV66c-vJu94dgcIeUrR8NGyvdN_/s1600-h/The+Pyramid+of+Cheops.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRftJhd_TPUtYcEHIAaqzcrrreyVTBbYnqo5v5tv2fHKuehq5vrdaqcPoix6lMwQDtLSGqRYC3S_2aFmkxw_lhIpI4uCWO9UWKWytqpMws3yhYTRhQBOV66c-vJu94dgcIeUrR8NGyvdN_/s400/The+Pyramid+of+Cheops.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426258291442734146" border="0" /></a></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Pyramid of Cheops, the largest of the group and indeed the most massive of all the Egyptian pyramids, was built by Cheops or Khufu, and was known to the ancient Egyptians as Ekhet Khufu ("Horizon of Khufu"). According to Herodotus (ii, 124-125) 100,000 men worked on its construction for three months every year. The cubic content of this huge structure, excluding the rock foundation and the chambers in the interior, is 3million cu. yd/2-3million cu. m (originally 3-3million cu. yd/2-5million cu. m). The base measurement is 746ft/227.5m (originally 756ft/230.38m), the vertical height 450ft/137.20m (originally, including the apex, 481ft/ 146.5m), the angle of inclination 51° 51'. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Ascent of the Pyramid of Cheops</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg5LQFk0NRPAfSVZ6oFr5TLBgsAvL2r-ROAIFtmXgEDKnywCRYnp4DAfwu6RhCqMR0Xk3REOij12WvrEpVpmetKnStlD7Gqjsd531T5arkz1IYQ65G9DkrObohgPYS6xp97-DCdvhYqQrv/s1600-h/ascent+pyramid+of+cheops.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 322px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg5LQFk0NRPAfSVZ6oFr5TLBgsAvL2r-ROAIFtmXgEDKnywCRYnp4DAfwu6RhCqMR0Xk3REOij12WvrEpVpmetKnStlD7Gqjsd531T5arkz1IYQ65G9DkrObohgPYS6xp97-DCdvhYqQrv/s400/ascent+pyramid+of+cheops.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426258806953993298" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The ascent of the pyramid (permitted only exceptionally and with the help of a guide) is hazardous and extremely strenuous, since it is necessary to climb steps more than 40inches/1m high. From the platform on the top the view extends west, south and northwest over the yellowish brown expanse of the desert, with the Sphinx, the smaller pyramids of Giza and the more distant groups of pyramids as far as Dahshur, while to the east are the cheerful green fields of the Nile Valley and, beyond the river, the Citadel of Cairo and the Moqattam Hills.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Pyramid of Cheops - Interior
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn1berLeaqX8xvBSflUKeMh-BDDNX8heYozwVp5ShlPPgX2UfoUUUV7TY-NpHsHpm9oaNySUMnyUIZNafpFNrImdiiW9m46yD_CVCvXJ0x-L4mbxv0F7V1swRCqsEF0KVr_lG9kDWYw72G/s1600-h/inside+pyramid+of+cheops.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn1berLeaqX8xvBSflUKeMh-BDDNX8heYozwVp5ShlPPgX2UfoUUUV7TY-NpHsHpm9oaNySUMnyUIZNafpFNrImdiiW9m46yD_CVCvXJ0x-L4mbxv0F7V1swRCqsEF0KVr_lG9kDWYw72G/s400/inside+pyramid+of+cheops.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426259137129895394" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The interior of the pyramid can also be seen, but the visit is fatiguing (lack of fresh air) and not particularly rewarding. The entrance is by a passage on the north side which was cut by tomb-robbers some 50ft/15m below the original entrance. This narrow tunnel leads into the Grand Gallery, a long passage (28ft/8.5m high, 37.5ft/12.25m wide, 154ft/47m long), a marvel of skillful masonry, beyond which is the tomb chamber (19ft/5.75m high, 34ft/10.50m long, 17ft/5.25m wide), containing the open, empty granite sarcophagus. The mummy has not been found. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Pyramid of Chephren</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhssPXir1Mxevo9P5QntAa1FAU9qnkvjoZs8wUvnqHDqa4Ct4OJDlrmyxsBcWPoBB0cGA3hEcvg7Fwkmc6L4WMDYAwATR3k4_edRBfe-ftljj0j9ovnACAdZYNGNGVUmEWdOBr4c9pD3d_m/s1600-h/Pyramid+of+Chephren.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhssPXir1Mxevo9P5QntAa1FAU9qnkvjoZs8wUvnqHDqa4Ct4OJDlrmyxsBcWPoBB0cGA3hEcvg7Fwkmc6L4WMDYAwATR3k4_edRBfe-ftljj0j9ovnACAdZYNGNGVUmEWdOBr4c9pD3d_m/s400/Pyramid+of+Chephren.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426259351380437522" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Some 175yd/160m from the southwest corner of the Pyramid of Cheops is the Pyramid of Chephren, known to the ancient Egyptians as Wer-Khefre ("Great is Chephren"). It stands higher than the Pyramid of Cheops and therefore appears larger. It has a vertical height of 448ft/ 136.5m (originally 471ft/143.5m), a base measurement of 691ft/210.5m (originally 706ft/215.25m) and an angle of 52° 20'. The total volume of masonry is 2.16million cu. yd/1.65million cu. m (originally 2.43million cu. yd/1.86million cu. m). A considerable section of the original casing has been preserved on the apex of the pyramid. The layout of the mortuary temple on the east side of the pyramid can be clearly distinguished. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Solar Boat Museum</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7eyroeGhJpVIw0JZyJE8DwuTLJWR1ZRuVdajoXDzA9R8scnVVB6M0wVhnsNH3_QjxHIh3XohxhOPHQ99T7V4V1OBqjL_51NVnEUY4XDVw2MUU9V06WkBTuq88AN9JyMQ3Jtj_Ncr5sQLN/s1600-h/Solar+Boat+Museum.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7eyroeGhJpVIw0JZyJE8DwuTLJWR1ZRuVdajoXDzA9R8scnVVB6M0wVhnsNH3_QjxHIh3XohxhOPHQ99T7V4V1OBqjL_51NVnEUY4XDVw2MUU9V06WkBTuq88AN9JyMQ3Jtj_Ncr5sQLN/s400/Solar+Boat+Museum.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426259585902217090" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Excavations on the south and east sides of the Pyramid of Cheops in 1954 brought to light five long cavities for boats, with a solar barque broken into more than a thousand pieces as a votive offering (now displayed in the new museum on the site).
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<br />The 43ft long boat, which is the centerpiece of the museum is thought to be 4,500 years old and to have carried the Pharaoh Cheops down the Nile from Memphis.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Lisht
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB_Q89JHSLFY-NR0QA73okJLusJgo97X1GMuxE5PEzfCTQcv6ENuS2cHi8JJTGlJqr9KnRyC1-RKzSsnmQxDeTZ-E5jJxZSQUqceu51l68DFJJAImnxXYEqg-HKIJLTlZI7NSXS908oiWm/s1600-h/Lisht.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB_Q89JHSLFY-NR0QA73okJLusJgo97X1GMuxE5PEzfCTQcv6ENuS2cHi8JJTGlJqr9KnRyC1-RKzSsnmQxDeTZ-E5jJxZSQUqceu51l68DFJJAImnxXYEqg-HKIJLTlZI7NSXS908oiWm/s400/Lisht.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426260896584682434" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The pyramids and mastabas of Lisht lie to the north of the village of that name, some 19mi/30km south of Dahshur. Amenemhet I, founder of the 12th Dynasty, moved his capital from Thebes to Lisht in order to establish firmer control over Lower Egypt, and near here, on the edge of the desert, he and his son Sesostris I, who for a time ruled jointly with him, built their pyramids. The pyramids, now visible only as sand covered mounds, were surrounded by smaller pyramids for female members of the royal family and hundreds of mastabas belonging to high State officials. A few irregularities in the ground on the edge of the cultivated land no doubt markthe site of the erstwhile capital of ltj-towy. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Pyramid of Mycerinus
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIkMUrQ7IeDudhTKaqGV1pZ2ilcENRYo6R4XWQO1Ai8JjEXrwCi7pvfkGCYWFZo6IBhd1NXtVUllF4UQ4CCdhXkvZs2P91iftIMkwvjnrOZjlwwQJ3-dJypKkdSLKyPaA2jul6_KKe61Q5/s1600-h/Pyramid+of+Mycerinus.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIkMUrQ7IeDudhTKaqGV1pZ2ilcENRYo6R4XWQO1Ai8JjEXrwCi7pvfkGCYWFZo6IBhd1NXtVUllF4UQ4CCdhXkvZs2P91iftIMkwvjnrOZjlwwQJ3-dJypKkdSLKyPaA2jul6_KKe61Q5/s400/Pyramid+of+Mycerinus.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426260339847138642" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Some 220yd/200m southwest of the Pyramid of Chephren is the smaller Pyramid of Mycerinus (Menkaure), which has a vertical height of 203ft/62m (originally 218ft/66.5m), a base measurement of 354ft/108m and an angle of 51°. The limestone blocks of which it is built are of unusually large size. On the south side of the pyramid are three smaller pyramids, left unfinished, for relatives of the Pharaoh. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Sphinx</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqKRdstgtuyNFOzI9Dkx_ZENvDC9iLp5Cwy6iICQ03hKg2hXw8HCYKdU6iaiQpJciGlTvS4bdI1vVxEW7pUQtfTwX2wBJZFSz7m4ZnFEQGjPvyvB6QfVnx0sGB35DaQEvnUmO0Ar5S8ru/s1600-h/Sphinx.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqKRdstgtuyNFOzI9Dkx_ZENvDC9iLp5Cwy6iICQ03hKg2hXw8HCYKdU6iaiQpJciGlTvS4bdI1vVxEW7pUQtfTwX2wBJZFSz7m4ZnFEQGjPvyvB6QfVnx0sGB35DaQEvnUmO0Ar5S8ru/s400/Sphinx.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426260700450811346" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Immediately northwest of the Valley Temple of Chephren, a simple but finely built granite structure, is the Sphinx, perhaps the most celebrated monument in Egypt after the Pyramid of Cheops: the figure of a recumbent lion hewn from the natural rock with the head of a Pharaoh (Chephren?) wearing the royal headcloth and cobra. The divine image on the breast and other royal insignia are missing. Weathering and deliberate mutilation have wrought much damage over the course of the centuries but in spite of this the Sphinx still conveys a powerful impression of majesty and artistic achievement. The total length of the figure is 241ft/73.5m, its height some 65ft/20m. Preservation work is in progress. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">
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<br /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Must Do</b></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Pyramids Sound and Light Show
<br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ZxS_rGhuaBkS2QvVMxT5FZRkd4F116Bzo69tKUfLf6sac3BK0a55tW3oUm2doQMQVAsMyafthfNDuzC0QCbBghTZtQKeZLYkld7UrrvkHE8vZF2x-iBtBWvokgKbvPr4QIbVvFMl9_na/s1600-h/pyramid+sound+and+light+show.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 254px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ZxS_rGhuaBkS2QvVMxT5FZRkd4F116Bzo69tKUfLf6sac3BK0a55tW3oUm2doQMQVAsMyafthfNDuzC0QCbBghTZtQKeZLYkld7UrrvkHE8vZF2x-iBtBWvokgKbvPr4QIbVvFMl9_na/s400/pyramid+sound+and+light+show.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426261962026096082" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Pyramids Sound and Light Show</b> (<i>Son-et-Lumière</i>), admission: foreign languages shows LE 60, Arabic show LE 11, private shows in foreign languages, LE 65 + LE 300 (covers operating expenses), Arabic private show, LE 16.50 + LE 150. More than slightly kitsch and frequently inaccurate in historical detail, but a worthwhile evening activity nonetheless. The "voice of the Sphinx" narrates the history of the Giza Plateau and its place in Egyptian history, as a dazzling laser display picks out the details of the Pyramids and displays historical scenes on the side of the Great Pyramid itself. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">If you eat at the Pizza Hut restaurant just outside the entrance to the Sound and Light Show, there's a good chance you'll be offered to watch the show from the roof of the restaurant for a small tip. While it's not as good as watching it from a front row seat inside the fences, it's excellent value for money. As of November 2009, extremely bright lights have been pointed at the roof of the Pizza Hut and various other buildings to get tourists to attend the show. They put projection lights towards the Pizza Hut so it's not easy to see much. Pizza Hut has replied by putting up a barricade on the roof to try to block the light. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">If you eat at the Pizza Hut restaurant just outside the entrance to the Sound and Light Show, there's a good chance you'll be offered to watch the show from the roof of the restaurant for a small tip. While it's not as good as watching it from a front row seat inside the fences, it's excellent value for money. As of November 2009, extremely bright lights have been pointed at the roof of the Pizza Hut and various other buildings to get tourists to attend the show. They put projection lights towards the Pizza Hut so it's not easy to see much. Pizza Hut has replied by putting up a barricade on the roof to try to block the light. </span></p> <table bg="" style="color: rgb(243, 243, 255);" width="100%" border="0" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0"> <col width="84"> <col width="52"> <col width="62"> <col width="57"> <tbody style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><tr> <th width="33%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Day </span></p> </th> <th width="21%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">First Show </span></p> </th> <th width="24%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Second Show </span></p> </th> <th width="22%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Third Show </span></p> </th> </tr> <tr> <td width="33%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><i>Winter</i> (Oct-Mar) </span></p> </td> <td width="21%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">6:30 PM </span></p> </td> <td width="24%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">7:30 PM </span></p> </td> <td width="22%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">8:30 PM </span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="33%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><i>Summer</i> (Apr-Sep) </span></p> </td> <td width="21%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">8:30 PM </span></p> </td> <td width="24%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">9:30 PM </span></p> </td> <td width="22%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">10:30 PM </span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="33%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Monday </span></p> </td> <td width="21%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">English </span></p> </td> <td width="24%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">French </span></p> </td> <td width="22%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Spanish </span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="33%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Tuesday </span></p> </td> <td width="21%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">English </span></p> </td> <td width="24%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Italian </span></p> </td> <td width="22%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">French </span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="33%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Wednesday </span></p> </td> <td width="21%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">English </span></p> </td> <td width="24%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">French </span></p> </td> <td width="22%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">German </span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="33%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Thursday </span></p> </td> <td width="21%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Japanese </span></p> </td> <td width="24%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">English </span></p> </td> <td width="22%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Arabic </span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="33%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Friday </span></p> </td> <td width="21%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">English </span></p> </td> <td width="24%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">French </span></p> </td> <td width="22%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><i>no show</i></span> </p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="33%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Saturday </span></p> </td> <td width="21%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">English </span></p> </td> <td width="24%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Spanish </span></p> </td> <td width="22%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Italian </span></p> </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="33%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Sunday </span></p> </td> <td width="21%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">German </span></p> </td> <td width="24%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">French </span></p> </td> <td width="22%"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Russian </span></p> </td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Camel Rides</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUef73Cx6rtKEssgjYzSkvqty8crsjDQR5qzjXYHJJ9dgZuYaqNAv4ihNCyvUC9F01xAgkAGisgILxTAmNnge2Sninq626WNoR1GJ8l9FM5RYYVoQ-KRbRGHv5AXW4NpBfYuGhqnkmN53/s1600-h/Camel+Rides+giza.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUef73Cx6rtKEssgjYzSkvqty8crsjDQR5qzjXYHJJ9dgZuYaqNAv4ihNCyvUC9F01xAgkAGisgILxTAmNnge2Sninq626WNoR1GJ8l9FM5RYYVoQ-KRbRGHv5AXW4NpBfYuGhqnkmN53/s400/Camel+Rides+giza.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426261607031073714" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Camel Rides</b>. Avoid succumbing to the temptation of taking a camel ride around the Pyramids, if you can, the practice is noisy, smelly and overrated. Basically, there are many better places in Egypt to take a camel ride, if you must. Things are a little better run than they used to be, and the practice of taking tourists out into the desert and refusing to return unless "tipped" is rather rare now. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Horse Riding</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCl-GV3A37tyb9Jkd9CHp_JnAICL4fz4V-2wlTLmTM5Dauaz9LSUXn1LYb_hTw75jXeDj0FILHOxU7VrKVr9Jejv2K7NDt49Kvy96Fc4NlnMH74qaYXADy52wRk0tJOobxyhreSrdBT_L1/s1600-h/horse+riding+giza.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 270px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCl-GV3A37tyb9Jkd9CHp_JnAICL4fz4V-2wlTLmTM5Dauaz9LSUXn1LYb_hTw75jXeDj0FILHOxU7VrKVr9Jejv2K7NDt49Kvy96Fc4NlnMH74qaYXADy52wRk0tJOobxyhreSrdBT_L1/s400/horse+riding+giza.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426262087429109058" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Go <b>horse riding</b> in the desert to experience both the spirit of the Egyptian horses and the true majesty of the Pyramids seen from outside the 'circus ring' wall. Be careful of touts, however; it's best to ride from one of the better quality stables, like <b>FB Stables</b>. Ride in the shadow of the Great Pyramids or further afield on a half day trip to Saqqara or Abu Sir or camp out over night with a barbecue and fire. You can also watch the Sound and Light show from FB's rooftop terrace! If you do ride with a tout (they will encourage you to do this if the area is closed for entry for example) they will make out that you will have a great view of the pyramids (which you won't), they will then charge you a fortune, ride at high speed through the streets without a helmet (or any regard for safety), they will then demand a tip as you ride back and try to take you to a 'museum' which is actually a shop (where you will be pressured to buy stuff). </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>See The Sunrise</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZMKpsobO-Yj5XWarjubmS1eskg8bbcQQx0wuTFDdHoZjCyFi2_9zqQiQ_vqQX7BmGjCSjbqIcp_WVaBwM4SruS94R58rBIACsdPA81aDWv6iFuFh3RuqQHz3PdrzcfTU1qa3doLWGjS9/s1600-h/sunrise+pyramid.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZMKpsobO-Yj5XWarjubmS1eskg8bbcQQx0wuTFDdHoZjCyFi2_9zqQiQ_vqQX7BmGjCSjbqIcp_WVaBwM4SruS94R58rBIACsdPA81aDWv6iFuFh3RuqQHz3PdrzcfTU1qa3doLWGjS9/s400/sunrise+pyramid.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426262471995848226" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">See the <b>sunrise</b>, the first sun beams colouring the Pyramids from the terrace on the third floor of a cafe or from the roof terrace of the hostel situated near the second western entrance and ticket-office. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>FB Stables</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAOVdo7tr_4-HfeYmo8WZLJyDoZ2dsCCDWF2LsQXphbDEuV70Elxyf4bRk4hsArX0buivgMPqp8XA_SAeoe2i7I7-YoLly-4EK_WFmjx0Myh6fwNSEAjxCy6CvWJXmIkNxmK3ErajnU3PH/s1600-h/FB+Stables.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAOVdo7tr_4-HfeYmo8WZLJyDoZ2dsCCDWF2LsQXphbDEuV70Elxyf4bRk4hsArX0buivgMPqp8XA_SAeoe2i7I7-YoLly-4EK_WFmjx0Myh6fwNSEAjxCy6CvWJXmIkNxmK3ErajnU3PH/s400/FB+Stables.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426262696359738530" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="FB_Stables"></a><b>FB Stables</b>, Gamal Abdul Nasser St, Sphinx (Turn left after the sphinx KFC, then right in Gamal Abdul Nasser Street. FB is the last stables on the left), ☎ (+20) 016 507 0288. Popular with expats who keep their horses at livery, Karim at FB Stables is also great for a 'tourist' type ride to view the Pyramids and Sphinx from the desert. Longer rides to Saqqara and Abu Sir can be arranged in advance, as can sunrise, sunset and moonlit rides. Other than the horses and good company, one of the best things about FB is their amazing rooftop terrace (with bbq) with unrivalled views over the Pyramids - a great place to relax with a drink whilst watching the Sound and Light shows. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Transportations</b></span></p> <h3><span style="font-size:100%;">By metro</span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Metro Line 2 now runs from Cairo into Giza, although it doesn't go all the way to the Pyramids. Get off at Giza station (not the terminus!) and ask around for minibuses for the remaining 10 km, 15-20 min trip to the Pyramids (<i>al-haram</i>).
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<br /></span></p> <h3><span style="font-size:100%;">By taxi</span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">It's possible to negotiate a taxi to take to you out to the Pyramids from any of the traveller-frequented parts of central Cairo - don't forget to haggle however. Taxi drivers will nearly always want to take you to see their "brother's" perfume shop, or their "father's" carpet warehouse on the way - if you don't want to waste time doing this, and being put on the spot to make a purchase - just make it very clear that you only want to see the antiquities. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Fortunately there are other Taxi options, which are the yellow ones and recently introduced white ones. These are metered and air conditioned. You might save yourself the hassle with the black and white taxis mentioned above, and at almost the same cost. On the other hand there are stories of drivers of white and yellow cabs fixing the meters, which would hardly be surprising given that it happens all over the world. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> <h3><span style="font-size:100%;">By bus</span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">From central Cairo, the optimum way to get to the Giza Pyramids using public mass transit options is by bus routes 355 or 357 - a large white, air-conditioned coach with CTA (Cairo Transport Authority) on the side. Travelling every 20 minutes from the airport and Heliopolis, the bus stops (or doesn't - you may have to flag it down!) at the Abdel Menem Riyad Station in Midan Tahrir, next to the Egyptian Museum, before continuing out to Giza and the Pyramids. Tickets costs LE 2 - a bargain! </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Even cheaper and more interesting is taking the ordinary buses 990 or 997, costing 50 piastres, from the big central bus station close to the museum, ask people to find the correct lane. Be careful when about getting down, most people will be honest and help you, but you may encounter scammers who take you to their camels instead of to the pyramids. For 997, the correct spot is along a long avenue, after you're spotted the Pyramids and the bus has done a U-turn and then turned left — get off when you a see a blue sign for the Light and Sound show. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span></p> QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-70743983726051711632010-01-12T09:32:00.000-08:002010-01-12T10:30:20.427-08:00Athens "Oldest Ancient City of Roman and Byzantine"<span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxZ2iP7EIDs7OXpqUyYYA1uubK6-1l92w9XGHqcPg5IdZvDflvXgSj0G8tUtUwTOp7otBltg3a_kPXkJwJ6K7oWmwysQHHz9EUQKNO5NTJtWhrsRFHDnh-gvm7nRGBsEtuNsbxuEdmsXw2/s1600-h/athens.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxZ2iP7EIDs7OXpqUyYYA1uubK6-1l92w9XGHqcPg5IdZvDflvXgSj0G8tUtUwTOp7otBltg3a_kPXkJwJ6K7oWmwysQHHz9EUQKNO5NTJtWhrsRFHDnh-gvm7nRGBsEtuNsbxuEdmsXw2/s400/athens.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425921565531911010" border="0" /></a>
<br /></span><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Athens</b></span><span style="font-size:100%;">, the capital and largest city of Greece, dominates the Attica periphery; as one of the world's oldest cities, its recorded history spans around 3,400 years.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The Greek capital has a population of 745,514 (in 2001) within its administrative limits and a land area of 39 km<sup>2</sup> (15 sq mi). The urban area of Athens extends beyond the administrative city limits with a population of 3,130,841 (in 2001)[1] and a land area of 412 km2 (159 sq mi). According to Eurostat, the Athens Larger Urban Zone (LUZ) is the 7th most populous LUZ in the European Union (the 5th most populous capital city of the EU) with a population of 4,013,368 (in 2004). A bustling and cosmopolitan metropolis, Athens is central to economic, financial, industrial, political and cultural life in Greece and it is rated as an alpha- world city. It is rapidly becoming a leading business centre in the European Union. In 2008, Athens was ranked the world's 32nd richest city by purchasing power and the 25th most expensive in a UBS study.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Classical Athens was a powerful city-state. A centre for the arts, learning and philosophy, home of Plato's Academy and Aristotle's Lyceum, It is widely referred to as the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy, largely due to the impact of its cultural and political achievements during the 5th and 4th centuries BC on the rest of the then known European continent.</span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"> The heritage of the classical era is still evident in the city, represented by a number of ancient monuments and works of art, the most famous of all being the Parthenon, widely considered a key landmark of early Western civilization. The city also retains a vast variety of Roman and Byzantine monuments, as well as a smaller number of remaining Ottoman monuments projecting the city's long history across the centuries. Landmarks of the modern era are also present, dating back to 1830 (the establishment of the independent Greek state), and taking in the Hellenic Parliament (19th century) and the Athens Trilogy consisting of the National Library of Greece, the Athens University and the Academy of Athens. Athens was the host city of the first modern-day Olympic Games in 1896, and 108 years later it welcomed home the 2004 Summer Olympics.</span><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 2.4 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { size: 8.27in 11.69in; margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } H3 { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --> </style> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Acropolis</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7ZltZV7BoZbMun6oNw_5FjG1d0a6Z-LDgcyxHzAYDbR7nNMeWmCZ_P1EyMiWQapAPuKPDDd_yG6E2tHye2myJuQC4oFnFB4REyNAbbT06Bk7ruX0R5kvg9WGK7A8UD3p40z5LXN929tE/s1600-h/Acropolis.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7ZltZV7BoZbMun6oNw_5FjG1d0a6Z-LDgcyxHzAYDbR7nNMeWmCZ_P1EyMiWQapAPuKPDDd_yG6E2tHye2myJuQC4oFnFB4REyNAbbT06Bk7ruX0R5kvg9WGK7A8UD3p40z5LXN929tE/s400/Acropolis.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425908501632653058" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Those arriving in Athens for the first time generally head immediately for the Acropolis. There are very few visitors who are not already familiar with the image of this distinctive citadel of ancient Athens, perched on its steep flat-topped rock above the sprawling city. It is the spot where Athens, and classical Greek civilisation, began, and the site of a collection of beautiful temples, most dedicated to the goddess of wisdom, Athena.
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<br />The ruins that remain visible today date from the 4th century BC, most of them erected by Pericles after the Persians destroyed many of the original Acropolis buildings. Visitors toil up the slopes past the souvenir stands and enter the site through the monumental entranceway, the Propylaia, which in ancient times contained an art gallery. To the right of the entrance is the tiny temple of Athena Nike, reconstructed and restored. The Parthenon, the greatest surviving monument of Doric architecture, is the biggest drawcard on the Acropolis, built of Pentelic marble quarried from the distant mountains, which form the backdrop to the magnificent view of Athens from the Acropolis.
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<br />Alongside the Parthenon is another temple, the Erechtheion, which bears holes on its northern porch where Poseidon's trident struck it during his contest with Athena to have the city named after him. There is a museum on the Acropolis where some of the carving and friezes recovered from the temples are on show, although many of the archaeological finds from the Acropolis are now housed in the British Museum in London. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Ancient Agora</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPpg9OHhSuhx6sFqCBe-sEdNfH7XVr35Dtt8KwMr1-KxEgZXA4EWu7QoE49w1Hsk6sDfs-Wf1x9zoA6gjbEucLCiqYbnvWfb_hiHWyHzwFn6m52Oz-XeR2Z9qBG5PGp88feCqFQBxd_f-e/s1600-h/Ancient+Agora.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPpg9OHhSuhx6sFqCBe-sEdNfH7XVr35Dtt8KwMr1-KxEgZXA4EWu7QoE49w1Hsk6sDfs-Wf1x9zoA6gjbEucLCiqYbnvWfb_hiHWyHzwFn6m52Oz-XeR2Z9qBG5PGp88feCqFQBxd_f-e/s400/Ancient+Agora.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425908755765427490" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Clustered below the Acropolis (enter from Odos Adrianou, east of Monastiraki Square) is the remains of the Agora, ancient Athens' commercial and civic centre, where once walked and talked the great philosophers Socrates and Plato. In fact the disgraced and despairing Socrates committed suicide in a prison in the southwest corner of the Agora, by drinking poison.
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<br />The area is littered with the ruins of numerous ancient buildings, including the Dionysos Theatre (the world's oldest theatre where great plays by Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides were first performed). One building that has been restored is the 200 BC Stoa of Attalos (a stoa is a long, low roofed promenade which served as a combination law court, municipal office and shopping arcade in classical Greece). The reconstructed building now has a museum on its ground floor containing artefacts covering 5,000 years of Athenian history. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>National Archaeological Museum</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgueVp2RuFtTWQ7jWUHwVi2yqScCixm-r8WXARTsNTZR4k241dbK_y69tDha7qO3dQCyYKJemTaOsbPtW6yAY3bPtqUv33MRT1Mq717CLOAJ-K5DzpJDXRyihCtb_Tm6KbXvPXbnbkirspo/s1600-h/National+Archaeological+Museum.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgueVp2RuFtTWQ7jWUHwVi2yqScCixm-r8WXARTsNTZR4k241dbK_y69tDha7qO3dQCyYKJemTaOsbPtW6yAY3bPtqUv33MRT1Mq717CLOAJ-K5DzpJDXRyihCtb_Tm6KbXvPXbnbkirspo/s400/National+Archaeological+Museum.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425909299761614610" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">This is the largest and most popular of Athens' many museums, and is usually very crowded. Its vast collection includes treasures unearthed from Mycenae by Heinrich Schliemann; a staggering array of sculpture including the earliest known Greek figurines dating from around 2,000 BC; frescoes from the volcanic island of Santorini; and so much more that it is recommended visitors make several visits to absorb it all. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Piraeus
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-e1WXaTWp5R8y_HP6nz84THUQ0I4OJsV2o5qBPgxTO3XLgZTZZHs5p9isZ53ENXSjfu3BdogN34pvqSkSSPLEyj_cf7w0xPt5XOOP7e9vUoNtknYHCmerlZ-evl2jl1-Cq8CbMNON7ekO/s1600-h/Piraeus.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 260px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-e1WXaTWp5R8y_HP6nz84THUQ0I4OJsV2o5qBPgxTO3XLgZTZZHs5p9isZ53ENXSjfu3BdogN34pvqSkSSPLEyj_cf7w0xPt5XOOP7e9vUoNtknYHCmerlZ-evl2jl1-Cq8CbMNON7ekO/s400/Piraeus.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425909681256106786" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Although not really attractive to tourists, the confusing, bustling port of Athens is the departure point for hundreds of island ferries and cruise ships, so most tourists pass through it while visiting Greece. Piraeus has been Athens' port since ancient times. It actually consists of three harbours, with most of the tourist boats using the Zea Limani section. There are several fish restaurants in the harbour precincts, and a sprawling street market. Visitors with time on their hands while waiting for ferries can also explore the Maritime Museum at Akti Themistokleous, alongside the pier used by the island hydrofoils, which features models of ancient and modern ships. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Kolonaki/Lykavittos Hill
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW3wYaBmrduALh0ZjFukZOOH4BDEKMuw_3yte9SaigOqxCkqykjrvUvokk9ReOdsNEBgTJDZn7u_1VVczWC0dwnpiGNFieaw2c9P3VtRlX7O4DDuf_Z9SFaPWDl2CNhdrwtvTEhdiDVQXA/s1600-h/Lykavittos+Hill.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW3wYaBmrduALh0ZjFukZOOH4BDEKMuw_3yte9SaigOqxCkqykjrvUvokk9ReOdsNEBgTJDZn7u_1VVczWC0dwnpiGNFieaw2c9P3VtRlX7O4DDuf_Z9SFaPWDl2CNhdrwtvTEhdiDVQXA/s400/Lykavittos+Hill.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425909918409321698" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">This hill juts a steep 984 feet (300m) right up from the centre of the city, and is a great vantage point from which to take in the scope of Athens. The St. George chapel and Lykavittos Theatre perch atop this hill, which can be reached by car, cable car or a healthy hike! The cable car departs every 30 minutes, from the corners of Aristippou and Ploutarchou Streets in Kolonaki. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Syntagma Square </b></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQX3DU00TK38vL935aDhCCtyjiRuk8qGNyaBJvhKAbB79OFcduw2YHAylXw8ugQRPWZTFoGMrtIBgRosqUWPUTkDNI4yK6G1Amza-E_7ZeqBgTpy3uZKZdm2dAMJkIWZq-IEQ5-au79hIU/s1600-h/Syntagma+Square.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQX3DU00TK38vL935aDhCCtyjiRuk8qGNyaBJvhKAbB79OFcduw2YHAylXw8ugQRPWZTFoGMrtIBgRosqUWPUTkDNI4yK6G1Amza-E_7ZeqBgTpy3uZKZdm2dAMJkIWZq-IEQ5-au79hIU/s400/Syntagma+Square.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425910290043607362" border="0" /></a></span> </p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The square that forms the heart of modern Athens is home to the Parliament Building, built in 1840 as a royal palace. Tourists flock to photograph the unusually clad guards at the palace; the skirted and pom-pommed guard is changed ceremonially every hour. The square is a central point of access to all the major attractions of Athens, particularly 'museum mile' along Vassilissis Sophias Avenue, which runs from Syntagma Square. Here most of Athens' museums are clustered, including the Benaki Museum, Museum of Cycladic Art and the Byzantine Museum. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Benaki Museum
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmCd0p9lUnt2UsI_LQcg7jz6pH65FlfRxtdzg75KuyWm303GuW7wIgG9-HNA3iGZ2WOLVjIRj6Us0E9xrLPs3L9xGeC6joigtGKzAdMd9u1RGcH8qF-mskuhg8Ilcd7L9NAUZLoqb5HaRx/s1600-h/Benaki+Museum.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmCd0p9lUnt2UsI_LQcg7jz6pH65FlfRxtdzg75KuyWm303GuW7wIgG9-HNA3iGZ2WOLVjIRj6Us0E9xrLPs3L9xGeC6joigtGKzAdMd9u1RGcH8qF-mskuhg8Ilcd7L9NAUZLoqb5HaRx/s400/Benaki+Museum.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425910588313633746" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Established in 1930, the museum houses prehistoric to modern Greek art and artifacts, occasionally hosting exhibitions, and restoration and conservation workshops. The collection features Paleolithic and Neolithic relics, and covers the late Roman Empire as it merged into the Byzantine Empire. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Attica Zoological Gardens
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDksp20yU_kmiorBYXdIdZpNRyMyA02HzOj75MxR_nxWJ0-XmNKuveJZYkTyNuySemEzSRtBUkfhERNUBF4F0fLqCLRga3OTFkslRxYPlKJi1EbfVs3pVmgVmcprTEfabmjNdV-c4h-anW/s1600-h/attica+zoological+park.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 258px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDksp20yU_kmiorBYXdIdZpNRyMyA02HzOj75MxR_nxWJ0-XmNKuveJZYkTyNuySemEzSRtBUkfhERNUBF4F0fLqCLRga3OTFkslRxYPlKJi1EbfVs3pVmgVmcprTEfabmjNdV-c4h-anW/s400/attica+zoological+park.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425910975457016082" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The wonderful Attica Zoo is a must for children of all ages. Featuring over 2000 birds of 30 different species, as well as other exotic animals such as lynx, white lions, black panthers, snow leopards and jaguars, this zoo is the only one of its kind in Greece. It also features a reptile house and a children's farm as well as other walk-through enclosures, including a 'monkey's jungle'. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>National Gardens
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcAo_6kGPeG7V1J0G9M7kiiLvv_Wf0j9i6WqyJXnxcRgz_deC0NjJVjqBdzKc6skIovVPDTmdcExcUoWc1eoE8zOJ2maeeM3x2AGGBgQRXwms6UGERNil75z_Hpal7URokZt6kHxNxwDV_/s1600-h/National+Gardens.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcAo_6kGPeG7V1J0G9M7kiiLvv_Wf0j9i6WqyJXnxcRgz_deC0NjJVjqBdzKc6skIovVPDTmdcExcUoWc1eoE8zOJ2maeeM3x2AGGBgQRXwms6UGERNil75z_Hpal7URokZt6kHxNxwDV_/s400/National+Gardens.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425911493367833506" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Picnicking with the children at the National Gardens on a Saturday has become a common pastime for local Athenian families and is a great way to spend a sunny summers day when the days are long. The Gardens feature a small zoo, duck ponds, resident cats, a Botanical Museum a playground and lots of wide-open space for children to play in. For children who love books, the gardens are also home to a Children's Library. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Goulandris Museum of Natural History
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRENNzoZ1FG-y05WEj9cXLxfqCFFvZw_630gq6ba_mJuXGzZ9mO_aVAsvBbrZFv3gH0KBJN1pjvHAvKYmMJIFqaN-sewby5B7fzkI_Pb01Ri2aUVoaa13ej1haATrm1F92SMvudc37niI3/s1600-h/Goulandris+Museum+of+Natural+History.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRENNzoZ1FG-y05WEj9cXLxfqCFFvZw_630gq6ba_mJuXGzZ9mO_aVAsvBbrZFv3gH0KBJN1pjvHAvKYmMJIFqaN-sewby5B7fzkI_Pb01Ri2aUVoaa13ej1haATrm1F92SMvudc37niI3/s400/Goulandris+Museum+of+Natural+History.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425912109871368578" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Children love nothing more than exploring museums with fossils, dinosaur skeletons and animal models, and for this reason, a trip to the Goulandris Museum of Natural History is a must for all families travelling to Athens. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Allou Fun Park
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghjwsoDCH4Qgqy2KVHIEl4wLMFvFmpXnG5J7aovM3Kuu3_amUwVIev4yaKr9miNgNbGW-7K5XoFA-aFJKKTSsRB2ZG-I04heLPkFDDwVTAPtN1HXOJpo3kkfnjWQrEDmjGdMjUSzyWntmz/s1600-h/allou+fun+park.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 272px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghjwsoDCH4Qgqy2KVHIEl4wLMFvFmpXnG5J7aovM3Kuu3_amUwVIev4yaKr9miNgNbGW-7K5XoFA-aFJKKTSsRB2ZG-I04heLPkFDDwVTAPtN1HXOJpo3kkfnjWQrEDmjGdMjUSzyWntmz/s400/allou+fun+park.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425912390582881458" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">One of Athens' most popular theme parks, Allou Fun Park offer children the opportunity to ride some seriously exciting rides, such as the Big Apple and Crazy Mouse. The views over the city of Athens form the to of the panoramic ferris wheel are also great for kiss of all ages. Children under 10 years of age will do better to go to the next-door section of the park called 'Kidom'. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Hellenic Children’s Museum </b></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Hellenic Children's Museum is a non-profit educational and cultural organization established in Athens in 1987 aims to encourage children to explore, learn, discover and question all around them. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Excursions</b></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Cape Sounion </b></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgghA3xAuAdAPFkGc0I1maOqnldp8V8lILFIxtqGdtaI9o5zeXUJ6bKfvkl3SW7SnLusHjg6v0VXIJRxXZLbaU86AnXe2M53X0Rt1ScJHX4ytf3d0WMIVBDIge1rthd8EsC_0xFRUxF0aQF/s1600-h/Cape+Sounion.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgghA3xAuAdAPFkGc0I1maOqnldp8V8lILFIxtqGdtaI9o5zeXUJ6bKfvkl3SW7SnLusHjg6v0VXIJRxXZLbaU86AnXe2M53X0Rt1ScJHX4ytf3d0WMIVBDIge1rthd8EsC_0xFRUxF0aQF/s400/Cape+Sounion.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425913402318831106" border="0" /></a></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Cape Sounion, about 43 miles (69km) east of Athens, is a popular seaside resort used by locals and visitors alike. On the cliffs above the town is the 5th-century BC Temple of Poseidon, where, according to legend, King Aegeus waited for his son, Theseus, to return from Crete after slaying the Minotaur. Sounion is easily accessible by bus from the city. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Monastery of Daphni
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSOIyogLlaS7nD8FStHkANkJhTB5ALLCSZEG3c4cwRpCwzkuwZO-nDsOnF7JAHV8eokUSgTsewGWk5Zm2yAKoU0KVUCrSQRJtMCj41eORMB1KBfakWmvxQtZMsyNtakRduCGQ-3mvDi1PE/s1600-h/Monastery+of+Daphni.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSOIyogLlaS7nD8FStHkANkJhTB5ALLCSZEG3c4cwRpCwzkuwZO-nDsOnF7JAHV8eokUSgTsewGWk5Zm2yAKoU0KVUCrSQRJtMCj41eORMB1KBfakWmvxQtZMsyNtakRduCGQ-3mvDi1PE/s400/Monastery+of+Daphni.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425913731444009410" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">This great Byzantine architectural masterpiece dates from the 4th century AD, and is situated about five and a half miles (9km) west of Athens on the road to Corinth. The church is built on a site where shrines have existed since ancient times, often destroyed by invaders and earthquakes. During the Crusades Cistercian monks turned Daphni into a Catholic monastery, but today it has been reclaimed by the Greek Orthodox Church and its beautiful mosaic work depicting Biblical scenes has been restored. A wine festival is held at Daphni each year in August/September. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Marathon
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisb1DrroVkCq_y1TQm-JjcWY5_6heAWvX0XYo3U95plZBEr7iyMon_ITiuBhqLOrUe9xqpSWSFmNEoQdXXw14wwEbrSaBs6txe1jLBlNqXiafG21w1V4atiaUWbinZMPVfNbcNmpmVO-ep/s1600-h/Pheidippides.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisb1DrroVkCq_y1TQm-JjcWY5_6heAWvX0XYo3U95plZBEr7iyMon_ITiuBhqLOrUe9xqpSWSFmNEoQdXXw14wwEbrSaBs6txe1jLBlNqXiafG21w1V4atiaUWbinZMPVfNbcNmpmVO-ep/s400/Pheidippides.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425914454730456802" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">About 26 miles (42km) northeast of Athens, between the villages of Nea Makri and Marathona, is the site of the great battle between the small force of Athenians and the mighty Persian army in 490 BC. On the plain of Marathon today the burial mound of the 192 Athenians who fell in the fight can be seen, along with a small museum displaying archaeological relics from the battlefield. The battle is famed not only for the Athenian victory against huge odds, but also for the fleetness of the Athenian runner, Pheidippides, who was dispatched to Athens with news of the victory and fell dead from exhaustion after delivering the message to the city; thus the name 'Marathon' was given to long-distance running races. The Marathon race in the 2004 Olympics started here, and followed the same route as that run by Pheidippedes in the legend, ending at the Panathinaikon Stadium in Athens, which was built for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Delphi
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxj-uxLYHbl1PKzGVe-eeLEFjM5ZOdotXJ4gvIA1Mkf3xZYhqZ6WUbjVQ3y1VvgrWPAqmNyc8bXVEyJriRlPFfnTv6kDD7I9gKlCx0KZ90xZgaoVzZXN4EgJBHu42rkCB9g2ynS-t3m3x/s1600-h/Delphi.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 269px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxj-uxLYHbl1PKzGVe-eeLEFjM5ZOdotXJ4gvIA1Mkf3xZYhqZ6WUbjVQ3y1VvgrWPAqmNyc8bXVEyJriRlPFfnTv6kDD7I9gKlCx0KZ90xZgaoVzZXN4EgJBHu42rkCB9g2ynS-t3m3x/s400/Delphi.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425914863875217490" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">In ancient times pilgrims came from all over the Greek world to seek advice from the god Apollo, via his oracle at the scenically beautifully situated site on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, known as Delphi. Today tourists flock constantly in the wake of the pilgrims of old up the Sacred Way to marvel at the remains of the marble Sanctuary of Apollo, the Castalian Spring and the Sanctuary of Athena. There is an excellent museum, too, at the site, which is northwest of Athens in the prefecture of Fokida. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Saronic Islands
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhslk72SuwhuOOdj-6HlqwvDM1Qh8SFRt1Sh7p1S63EWR_WqTxFmVmNbz4gV9my36iQEtiaIGfRc2OYxSRcixikkb9EX_T0BVSasUseyIcd8Yj_NW75mbM-4LiRrA18DwqsNjxG69pPEKG0/s1600-h/Saronic+Islands.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhslk72SuwhuOOdj-6HlqwvDM1Qh8SFRt1Sh7p1S63EWR_WqTxFmVmNbz4gV9my36iQEtiaIGfRc2OYxSRcixikkb9EX_T0BVSasUseyIcd8Yj_NW75mbM-4LiRrA18DwqsNjxG69pPEKG0/s400/Saronic+Islands.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425915040575184258" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Saronic group of islands are all within an hour or two of Piraeus by boat, making them ideal destinations for day trips from the city for those who want to experience a taste of Greek island life. Alternatively, use the islands as tranquil bases on which to stay while commuting to Athens to see the sights. Aegina is the closest island, sporting a sandy beach called Agia Marina, and a quaint fishing village called Perdika. Hydra has no sandy beaches, but the town is picturesque and offers good seafood restaurants. Poros can be reached from Piraeus in little more than an hour and sports beautiful forests that descend to the beach. It offers water sports opportunities and a lively café scene, as well as being a ferry hub offering connections to all the popular Aegean islands. Spetsi has an attractive old harbour and one of the oldest wooden boat-building yards in Greece. It is also renowned for its beaches and pine forests.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Koutouki Cave
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKQAC50Bh64M9FlruBNTKhidFiSfDdoC1UKho1JAQTaDpail5uwZbIslMTWOBnzY8YfBSyySFOtLqaXb8ZUIP_Z5JMw4C7asLp3-6GSVZjmh4EH9wg948jTZsJ8z2Bz5mvmSqyRx43srXJ/s1600-h/Koutouki+Cave.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKQAC50Bh64M9FlruBNTKhidFiSfDdoC1UKho1JAQTaDpail5uwZbIslMTWOBnzY8YfBSyySFOtLqaXb8ZUIP_Z5JMw4C7asLp3-6GSVZjmh4EH9wg948jTZsJ8z2Bz5mvmSqyRx43srXJ/s400/Koutouki+Cave.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425915379159396466" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Located 4km outside the town of Peania, and a scenic hour's ride from Athens, this cavern lies under the eastern slope of Mount Ymittos. A guided tour of the cave starts every 30 minutes. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Events</b></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Athens Festival
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFiwRZq-f0s4tzrq4H8CdBMFHmZAB2inCGCQBuqe-LZZGoHAYK-J5Y-xtc8sFMmtGZaQLW3dh3KGs3NMZwpnZw50_UpM0HU-jTZYCAgGrnwMO6LSaonNLht52s9XTGBqQjgkBOwhhv7nx/s1600-h/athens+festival.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 380px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFiwRZq-f0s4tzrq4H8CdBMFHmZAB2inCGCQBuqe-LZZGoHAYK-J5Y-xtc8sFMmtGZaQLW3dh3KGs3NMZwpnZw50_UpM0HU-jTZYCAgGrnwMO6LSaonNLht52s9XTGBqQjgkBOwhhv7nx/s400/athens+festival.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425915597440828930" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The city of Athens' cultural showcase is the two-phase Athens Festival, held every summer since 1955 at the magnificent 2,000 year old Herod Atticus Odeon, built in 161 AD, as well as other venues throughout the city. The ancient tiered theatre nestles at the foot of the Acropolis and during summer and autumn resounds each evening to the tune of symphony orchestras, classical drama and dance, and operatic performances. The large and varied programme of international and Greek artists is available from the Athens Festival office on Stadiou Street. The summer section of the festival runs from about June to July, while the autumn section covers August to October. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Sea Turtle Rescue Society Archelon</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPqxdvqmaFlYuH3yGXPycZEMENSCMLxOfn5Yu5_K43l8GXCUfPR_EZqtYKSV-_KSwScIm84-Mgc1Mp8Tx04jIdvcMmZ8N8ccsBrxMcNwI2Y11sXBpGBgP56dGeh0VgXg2iqqTEt8dkDNkv/s1600-h/Sea+Turtle+Rescue+Society+Archelon.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPqxdvqmaFlYuH3yGXPycZEMENSCMLxOfn5Yu5_K43l8GXCUfPR_EZqtYKSV-_KSwScIm84-Mgc1Mp8Tx04jIdvcMmZ8N8ccsBrxMcNwI2Y11sXBpGBgP56dGeh0VgXg2iqqTEt8dkDNkv/s400/Sea+Turtle+Rescue+Society+Archelon.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425916693977345314" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Near Athens in Glyfada (50 min by tram from the center), there is the <b>Sea Turtle Rescue Society Archelon</b>. They are regularly looking for volunteers who are willing to work on their own costs and are able to take care of injured sea turtles. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Beaches to the South of Athens</b></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">If the weather is good, head out of town on buses A2, B2 or E22 from metro station Sygrou, or the tram from Syntagma to the <b>beaches to the south of Athens</b>. Just get off wherever the sea takes your fancy. Be aware though that beach-side cafes can hit you hard with prices of food and drinks. If you are the only person getting on the bus, be aware that you need to flag the bus down to get it to stop or it will just fly on by. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>EasyCruise</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrEiEIIVPe9Q-siHMjpdEsD80_AIZGyZdnPvbpb4uc_FiWUam3ILRuZNipMSrXHJnr2YRBKCiClCSdPehO6haBJ3XEPkyO-5lcnoGXPwTCt4024Y3-qkRFtflVPIo8LvdzaX0voO9mfWcz/s1600-h/EasyCruise.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrEiEIIVPe9Q-siHMjpdEsD80_AIZGyZdnPvbpb4uc_FiWUam3ILRuZNipMSrXHJnr2YRBKCiClCSdPehO6haBJ3XEPkyO-5lcnoGXPwTCt4024Y3-qkRFtflVPIo8LvdzaX0voO9mfWcz/s400/EasyCruise.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425917372173056626" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>EasyCruise</b>, Syngrou Avenue 362, Kallithea , 176 74 Athinai, phone +30 211 2116211. The infamous cheap flight company now runs a variety of cruises from Greece [Athens] to Turkey and surrounding islands such as Mykonos, Paros and Syros. For the classic enthusiast, their tour company visits Acropolis, Epidavros, Nemea, Mycenae, Corinth, Olympia and Delphi. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Traditional Greek Dance Festival
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJTHTTgdK7MSMWHC3il0FgC9Y6ctQaobSRxoufn5669V6ZfH8AyGwxzq8sUZFpUK99VThGbdliapaFZ1kJfEDkyrzvMtOkCcq1fT7hxwzB_hI57uYUDotGG_UaBRNC-pcb-gWSUOVJ44hN/s1600-h/traditional+greek+festival.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 260px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJTHTTgdK7MSMWHC3il0FgC9Y6ctQaobSRxoufn5669V6ZfH8AyGwxzq8sUZFpUK99VThGbdliapaFZ1kJfEDkyrzvMtOkCcq1fT7hxwzB_hI57uYUDotGG_UaBRNC-pcb-gWSUOVJ44hN/s400/traditional+greek+festival.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425917726670818802" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The warmth and energy of the Greek people is nowhere better demonstrated than in their traditional dancing, and this can be witnessed in fine style each summer night (except Mondays) at the theatre established by Greek folk expert, Dora Stratou, on Philopappus Hill in Athens. The dancers in each show do full justice to the costumes and ancient routines that make up each packed performance. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Rockwave Festival
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrOPGpAA98RrLIuth6F-dqnP_a27qdZCZnk7-GbWprs6GMhU1or3nz2qSZXdtCxz7AfubAOB3ftbwzcBL9nrduBjTILoT-1Y6XISw6-rmuSwJkSztqGzdtNncJh24-T1a4Jg6PLx66nZIP/s1600-h/Rockwave+Festival.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrOPGpAA98RrLIuth6F-dqnP_a27qdZCZnk7-GbWprs6GMhU1or3nz2qSZXdtCxz7AfubAOB3ftbwzcBL9nrduBjTILoT-1Y6XISw6-rmuSwJkSztqGzdtNncJh24-T1a4Jg6PLx66nZIP/s400/Rockwave+Festival.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425917833307931170" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Since it was first held in 1996 Athens' Rockwave Festival has become one of Europe's most popular annual live rock music events, drawing the hottest performers and an enthusiastic crowd of tens of thousands. The music fest takes place over three days, featuring three stages offering different types of music: metal, rock and dance. The latest addition is the 'silent' dance experience, featuring the Silent Disco. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Lycabettus Hill Festival</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlvJqKHrBwheEaqNb09gGsXq3Db7JRh7rVpQMy1lzGCikl_WR1Y5s9WQmxX6EMm-ONEJxOA808bcmnobgrevevfRw3Z3udnNWjkzQfjnjSbsnVVV0LVKdyNS7tj9oat0GIfG9m_MC6lwyD/s1600-h/Lycabettus+Hill+Festival.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 271px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlvJqKHrBwheEaqNb09gGsXq3Db7JRh7rVpQMy1lzGCikl_WR1Y5s9WQmxX6EMm-ONEJxOA808bcmnobgrevevfRw3Z3udnNWjkzQfjnjSbsnVVV0LVKdyNS7tj9oat0GIfG9m_MC6lwyD/s400/Lycabettus+Hill+Festival.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425918114252977634" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">A perfect way to spend the hot summer nights in Athens in stunning surroundings and with first class entertainment is to attend some of the items presented at the annual Lycabettus Hill contemporary arts festival. The various performances take place in the open-air theatre atop the hill which provides magnificent views across Athens. The programme includes contemporary jazz, pop, rock and dance shows. For more information contact the Lycabettus Theatre on (0)210 722 7233. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Night life
<br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgai_ZLOWUEn2wXraB_8blI1X2g6Gr1ZpH5arU7BqjV-GQ8kreWLgefboEJ8IrDFybyAasMlB-_4O74Eg4rGvOIHgSeJ5rBmBAjAM2BuvvzUOj-ot7u4JCiPRqZQw56rHN-oX9uTuf_DNVP/s1600-h/Night+life+athens.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgai_ZLOWUEn2wXraB_8blI1X2g6Gr1ZpH5arU7BqjV-GQ8kreWLgefboEJ8IrDFybyAasMlB-_4O74Eg4rGvOIHgSeJ5rBmBAjAM2BuvvzUOj-ot7u4JCiPRqZQw56rHN-oX9uTuf_DNVP/s400/Night+life+athens.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425918461119122786" border="0" /></a></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Greece has earned a reputation in not only Europe, but across the globe, for its crazy island summer nightlife, but don’t be fooled – the nightlife in Athens can rival just about any of its island counterparts. Athens boasts a hectic nightlife consisting of everything from sex shows and gay bars to traditional Greek music and dancing to classical concerts. Taking an afternoon nap to rest up for the evening’s activities is a good idea, as most parties don’t really get going until well after dinner, which can be as late as 10pm in the summertime. The old Turkish quarter, known as the Plaka district, is a great place to start where tavernas and fast-food souvlaki joints bustle and diners sip on aperitifs on rooftop terraces overlooking the Acropolis to the traditional Greek music, called Rembetika. The Monastiraki district is a less crowded and affordable option for an evening meal. The James Joyce Pub here is a local hangout for many expats and locals a must if you’re in the area. After dinner head to one of the many music bars, clubs, rock and jazz venues, and Rembetika clubs to hear the traditional Greek music. For a less touristy option, head to the area around the port of Pireau and explore the clubs and bars on offer here. One of the most unique and breathtaking venues for a live concert is in the theatre on Mount Lycavettos. Many world-famous artists have performed here so check the Athens news for upcoming shows. Parafono, in the centre of Athens, is a live-music club dedicated to jazz and blues and a great place do watch a gig, while Sundays are dedicated to country, rock and acoustic jam. In the distance the red chimneys of Technopolis attract bourgeois bohemians who flock to jazz and comedy festivals in this former industrial area.</span></p><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Transportations</b></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Public transport in Athens has improved by leaps and bounds in the last ten years. The simple €1 ticket lets you travel on any means of transport — metro, suburban trains, trams, trolleybuses, buses — with unlimited transfers anywhere within Athens (except the metro airport line east of Doukissis Plakentias and the airport buses) for 90 minutes, and you can also get a €3 ticket valid for 24 hours or a €10 weekly ticket. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>By Metro</b></span></p> <p style=""><span style="font-size:100%;">The new Athens Metro system, opened in 2001 (and followed by a restoration of the old Line 1) and currently being extended, is a wonder to behold, and puts many better-known metro systems to shame. Many metro stations resemble museums as they exhibit artifacts found during excavations for the system (i.e. Syntagma). Greeks are very proud about the new subway system, so do not even think about littering and by all means avoid any urge for graffiti- you will be intercepted by security at once. You are also not allowed to consume food or drink in the subway system. There are three lines: </span></p> <ul><li><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Line 1</b> (Μ1 – ISAP</span><span style="font-size:100%;">): <b>Piraeus – Kifissia</b> connects the port of Piraeus and the northern suburbs of Athens via the city centre. </span></p> </li><li><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Line 2</b> (M2 – Attiko Metro]): <b>Agios Antonios – Agios Dimitrios</b> connects western and southern Athens. </span></p> </li><li><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Line 3</b> (M3): <b>Egaleo – Doukissis Plakentias – International Airport</b> connects the south-western suburbs with the northern suburbs (Halandri and Doukissis Plakentias stations) and the International Airport. </span></p> </li></ul> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Validate your ticket at the validation machines upon entering the station. Failure to do so will entail a hefty fine if you are caught by ticket inspectors. The standard metro fare is €1 for trips between all stations except the Airport line, east of Doukissis Plakentias. For €3, you can buy a 24-hour ticket for all public transport in Athens, apart from the Airport line. This needs to be validated only once, at the start of the first journey. The standard fare to or from the Airport is €6, €10 for a return trip within 48 hours, €10 for a one-way trip for a 2-person group and €15 for a one-way trip for a 3-person group. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>By suburban rail</b></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The <b>Suburban Railway</b> <i>(Proastiakos)</i> is a new addition to Athens's network. The main line starts from Piraeus, passes through the main line train station of Larissis in Athens, and forks at Neratziotissa west to Kiato and Corinth and e</span><span style="font-size:100%;">ast towards the Airport. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>By tram</b></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The new <b>Athens Tram</b> connects the city centre with the southern suburbs and has connections with the metro lines. There are three tram lines: </span></p> <ul><li><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Line 1 (T1): Syntagma – Palaio Faliro – Neo Faliro</b> connects the city centre with the Peace and Friendship Stadium. </span></p> </li><li><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Line 2 (T2): Syntagma – Palaio Faliro – Glyfada</b> connects the city centre with the coastal zone. </span></p> </li><li><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Line 3 (T3): Neo Faliro – Palaio Faliro – Glyfada</b> runs along the coastal zone. </span></p> </li></ul> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">A single ticket costs 60 cents. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>By bus</b></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Athens is served by a network of diesel buses, natural gas buses and electric trolley buses run by the Athens Urban Transport Organisation. A standard bus ticket costs €1. It is called the Integrated ticket and allows for multiple trips within 90 minutes, and it's available in most kiosks. Use a €3.20 ticket to travel to or from the airport. If you tend to stay for more than a week then a weekly pass for €10 is the most economical. It gives you unlimited rides on almost all public transit (bus, tram, train, subway) for 7 days. You only need to validate once, before first use. Buses will not stop unless you signal the driver by raising your arm. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Night buses</b>. As of March 2006 the night bus routes are: </span></p> <ul><li><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>X14</b> Syntagma Square to Kifissia. </span></p> </li><li><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>11</b> Ano Patissia – Neo Pangrati – Nea Elvetia (trolley bus). </span></p> </li><li><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>040</b> Piraeus to Syntagma Square. </span></p> </li><li><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>500</b> Piraeus – Kifissia (night only). </span></p> </li><li><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>X92, X93, X95, X96, X97</b> (the airport buses</span><span style="font-size:100%;">). </span></p> </li></ul> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">At the airport you can pick up a multitude of public transport maps, especially for buses, tram and trolleys that cover the whole of Athens, and parts of Attica like Sounio and other ports. These maps can be found in display stands. They are blue and marked with big Numbers, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 in different colors. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>By bicycle</b></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Athens is certainly not the city to go around with a bicycle, as it does not have much bicycle lanes and the car drivers tend to drive quite aggressively. Nevertheless (or maybe because of this) riding a bicycle in Athens has become lately some sort of a political (counter-)action, especially by young people with an alternative lifestyle. In general, tourists not familiar with the terrible Athenian traffic are not advised to use a bicycle as a principal means of transport. Small rides are safe though in the long network of pedestrian streets around the Historical Centre of the city and can be quite enjoyable indeed. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The initiative My City with a Bike taken by the General Secretariat for The Youth and several NGO's offers free conducted tours with free bikes every Saturday and Sunday from 10AM to 3PM all year round except for the rainy days. All you have to do is book 10 days in advance either by email (admin@anthropos.gr) or phone (8011 19 19 00). </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> <h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>On foot</b></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Athens offers some of the best and worst urban walking in Europe. Several major streets have been recently pedestrianized, and a mostly car-free archeological walk has been implemented connecting the Acropolis and nearby sites. Pleasant walking can also be had in Plaka, especially its upper reaches, and in much of Kolonaki, and the N</span><span style="font-size:100%;">ational Garden can provide a welcome respite from the heat and noise of the city center. On the other hand, Athens' horrendous traffic can make crossing the street in many areas a hair-raising proposition, and even walking down many major streets can be an unpleasant experience of noise and pollution. Cars and motorbikes parked blocking the sidewalks (illegal but ubiquitous) can also make a stroll difficult. Fortunately, much of the traffic-plagued area of the city can be avoided by judicious use of the new Metro, which goes most places a visitor would want to see or to walk around in. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">You can now visit the Acropolis, walk along the picturesque streets of Plaka or the hills around the Acropolis at your own pace, with i <b>Pod Pocket tours audioguides</b>. It’s informative and fun! They are available for rent at Athens Hilton Hotel, Sofitel Athens Airport, King George Palace and Baby Grand Hotel. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span> </p> QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-59459564709064452102010-01-11T10:57:00.000-08:002010-01-11T12:22:41.187-08:00Cairo "The Capital Of Egypt"<span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj09e8H0fZWqFgIB1tTyl74IAN4shVcGEfl-QHMpeyWQYrcXw2hyphenhyphenPLnG_N5PRGA46_mZjEn7NY1vmYLdnCJ-XtalUAwKUO_OIe9-kSiRDDDsz6NJ_cNa5RDp-K6ihtGx8-ZI5ec52qopsxJ/s1600-h/cairo.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj09e8H0fZWqFgIB1tTyl74IAN4shVcGEfl-QHMpeyWQYrcXw2hyphenhyphenPLnG_N5PRGA46_mZjEn7NY1vmYLdnCJ-XtalUAwKUO_OIe9-kSiRDDDsz6NJ_cNa5RDp-K6ihtGx8-ZI5ec52qopsxJ/s400/cairo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425579549819900066" border="0" /></a><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Cairo</b> (القاهرة <i>al-Qāhirah</i>) is the capital of Egypt and, with a total population in excess of 16 million people, one of the largest cities in both Africa and the Middle East (the regions which it conveniently straddles). It is also the 19th largest city in the world, and among the world's most densely populated cities. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Situated on the River Nile, Cairo is famous for its own history, preserved in the fabulous medieval Islamic city and Coptic sites in Old Cairo. The Egyptian Museum in the center of town is a must see, with its countless Ancient Egyptian artifacts, as is shopping at the Khan al-Khalili bazaar. No trip to Cairo would be complete, for example, without a visit to the Giza Pyramids, and to the nearby Saqqara Pyramid Complex, where visitors will see Egypt's first step pyramid built by the architect Imhotep for the third dynasty pharaoh Djoser. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Though firmly attached to the past, Cairo is also home to a vibrant modern society. The Midan Tahrir area situated in downtown Cairo area , built in the 19th century under the rule of Khedive Ismail, has strived to be a "Paris on the Nile". There also are a number of more modern suburbs including Ma'adi and Heliopolis, while Zamalek is a quiet area on Gezira Island, with upscale shopping. Cairo is best in the fall or spring, when the weather isn't so hot. A felucca ride on the Nile is a good way to escape from the busy city, as is a visit to Al-Azhar Park. </span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Mohammed Ali Mosque</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8mS1-iKU8RUIiyWnf0maHxdiOaAOFEReWO9sC_1g7xyQ7bfPhP3lyyiVMRRbWxYOdRTHIspA8cnEegZrEK6PF9QJj0-pcwUqhk-imwD7ZnBJJmFdwhi0R3lopE7MamR36coVwcgGIEQ_/s1600-h/Mohammed-ali-basha-mosque.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8mS1-iKU8RUIiyWnf0maHxdiOaAOFEReWO9sC_1g7xyQ7bfPhP3lyyiVMRRbWxYOdRTHIspA8cnEegZrEK6PF9QJj0-pcwUqhk-imwD7ZnBJJmFdwhi0R3lopE7MamR36coVwcgGIEQ_/s400/Mohammed-ali-basha-mosque.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425559622012649298" border="0" /></a><br />The Citadel is entered by the Bab el-Gedid, which leads into a courtyard and then through the Bab el-Wastani into the main courtyard. On the south side of this is the Mohammed Ali Mosque, often called the Alabaster Mosque, one of the city's great landmarks with its tall and disproportionately slender minarets. It was begun in 1824 by Mohammed (Mehemet) Ali but completed only in 1857, under his successor Said. The architect was a Greek named Yusuf Boshna from Istanbul, who took as his model the Nuruosmaniye Mosque in that city, itself modeled on the Hagia Sophia.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >View From Mohammed Ali Mosque</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQOAwadHMZSMxN8I1QyF0krq1gu0GX-QwGx6V2-Nol8vycJGKeKx8RboWjJWZ3AeE81ltvYWs2a9Z3KbMKFJCwqu0pJy0Drxbis-V08Wt0GLXFrn2U7Gti-dWX-_fj50XalYJrXY_5ko5/s1600-h/Mohammed+Ali+Mosque.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 312px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQOAwadHMZSMxN8I1QyF0krq1gu0GX-QwGx6V2-Nol8vycJGKeKx8RboWjJWZ3AeE81ltvYWs2a9Z3KbMKFJCwqu0pJy0Drxbis-V08Wt0GLXFrn2U7Gti-dWX-_fj50XalYJrXY_5ko5/s400/Mohammed+Ali+Mosque.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425558821439135090" border="0" /></a><br />From the west corner of the mosque there is a magnificent view of the gray city with its innumerable minarets and domes and, now, its high rise blocks; in the distance can be seen the Pyramids of Giza.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Corniche el-Nil</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOC0RY3AQDCoVZjCnTlUVY_ufSgATzphc2yHQ9C5jBtU5G3UUwA1IVNwt4XZ1wpfdki5YA3fNzbru2mrhqCMAbdicw0QIgKCo6Do64bbdoHB7a0eBgv5Xs4SpjVTiH82SFFXW3ZxxxrTR/s1600-h/Corniche+el-Nil.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOC0RY3AQDCoVZjCnTlUVY_ufSgATzphc2yHQ9C5jBtU5G3UUwA1IVNwt4XZ1wpfdki5YA3fNzbru2mrhqCMAbdicw0QIgKCo6Do64bbdoHB7a0eBgv5Xs4SpjVTiH82SFFXW3ZxxxrTR/s400/Corniche+el-Nil.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425560278595597106" border="0" /></a><br />Just beyond the Egyptian Museum the Corniche el-Nil along the bank of the Nile is lined by large modern hotels and prestige buildings.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Egyptian Museum </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1yK8XUj4NgiaWFdZaPW_0VoGZ85mdH_pofqHDZzPKkPFPzqmamt4tfe72BubmRpKL8Z4j-x4O5SwxUFjmV488D-xahZVAHmhyphenhyphen17SZknoe2EPh22BTmftWquO0e7UvCgi_ZGCCIM_cBnJm/s1600-h/EgyptianMuseum.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1yK8XUj4NgiaWFdZaPW_0VoGZ85mdH_pofqHDZzPKkPFPzqmamt4tfe72BubmRpKL8Z4j-x4O5SwxUFjmV488D-xahZVAHmhyphenhyphen17SZknoe2EPh22BTmftWquO0e7UvCgi_ZGCCIM_cBnJm/s400/EgyptianMuseum.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425560709558170994" border="0" /></a><br />To the northwest of the Liberation Square is the large range of buildings (1897-1902) occupied by the Egyptian Museum, which has the world's largest and finest collection of Egyptian and Graeco-Roman antiquities, founded in 1857 by the French Egyptologist Auguste Mariette (1821-81 ). To do full justice to the Museum, which can display only a fraction of its total holdings, several days would be required. Visitors who are pressed for time will do well to confine themselves to the celebrated treasures of Tutankhamun and a selection of the Old Kingdom material.<br /><br />Linen production was massive and highly skilled from the Old Kingdom to the Graeco-Roman Period. Fabrics more than 2m wide were not unusual. Some were so fine they were woven </span><div id="fulltxtlnk001" style="display: none;">... <a href="http://www.planetware.com/cairo/egyptian-museum-egy-cai-egypt.htm" onclick="return toggle_fulltxt('001')" onmouseover="window.status='Show full description'; return true;" onmouseout="window.status=''; return true">More ></a></div> <div id="fulltxt001" style="display: inline;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> from only two linen fibers which made them transparent. Horizontal looms can be seen in models of workshops which were found in tombs. Wool was considered unclean an was rarely used until the end of the New Kingdom and the Graeco-Roman period.</span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Ezbekiya Gardens</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />Another focal point of the city's life, now superseded by the Midan el-Tahrir, was the beautiful Ezbekiya Gardens (formerly a lake) on the edge of the old Arab town, which are now traversed by Sharia 26 July. The gardens, laid out in 1870 under the direction of M. Barillet, a landscape gardener from Paris, contain a profusion of exotic bushes and plants, including an Indian banyan (Ficus bengalensis) whose aerial roots constantly form new trunks.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Ramesses Square</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBOOj-3_jqZQHkD6cB1SbrrFHe4laMk7XwBBw9tY8Ik0Zy_b9slKy-c_g27RqC3yXMFVMuI__JGQVQA5lYmMc-KQ_rCiYwQQsz7Z7Os0d5t7zrC5nsh5KyzJg8CqPVN78XcaIEzPAfFOu/s1600-h/Ramesses+Square.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 311px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBOOj-3_jqZQHkD6cB1SbrrFHe4laMk7XwBBw9tY8Ik0Zy_b9slKy-c_g27RqC3yXMFVMuI__JGQVQA5lYmMc-KQ_rCiYwQQsz7Z7Os0d5t7zrC5nsh5KyzJg8CqPVN78XcaIEzPAfFOu/s400/Ramesses+Square.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425561460147444322" border="0" /></a><br /></span><span id="s_lname" style="font-size:100%;">(Local Name: Midan Ramses)</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> Shari el-Gumhuriya, on the west side of the Ezbekiya Gardens, runs north and comes in about 1,100 yds/1,000 m to Midan Ramses, with a 33ft/ 10m high statue of Ramesses II from Memphis, set up here in 1955.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >The Barquqiya Mosque</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT6S7iEghSpT6Cr9230560Yrk4GGl8nqTJFXQobyUwzHLA5se7MNE56fYXtKZPHCefJyiIfxSWWykwhSq8nGmfLxR05lkYx5hcwL8PKkzFI8u7KM3_DNmXotFg8i-w1kKZkaOIprkjduXI/s1600-h/The+Barquqiya+Mosque.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 265px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT6S7iEghSpT6Cr9230560Yrk4GGl8nqTJFXQobyUwzHLA5se7MNE56fYXtKZPHCefJyiIfxSWWykwhSq8nGmfLxR05lkYx5hcwL8PKkzFI8u7KM3_DNmXotFg8i-w1kKZkaOIprkjduXI/s400/The+Barquqiya+Mosque.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425562639520195346" border="0" /></a><br />The Barquqiya Mosque, a medrese built in 1386 by the Mameluke Sultan Barquq, is now a branch of the El-Azhar University.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >The Bazaar Quarter</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMGKkl6bJNPYfhzoRZESXIiv0OZIZl4ty_GrC0NRqvcUNJEfLLdPaThoDBgJKcbkdqIu0nZKAWIMNdEw_ojlgXMsSNTToWlomPyamyMmUOLdm58UNOzpgNwk1U-oLhg_XXaLox3Q3PL8iX/s1600-h/bazaar+quarter.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMGKkl6bJNPYfhzoRZESXIiv0OZIZl4ty_GrC0NRqvcUNJEfLLdPaThoDBgJKcbkdqIu0nZKAWIMNdEw_ojlgXMsSNTToWlomPyamyMmUOLdm58UNOzpgNwk1U-oLhg_XXaLox3Q3PL8iX/s400/bazaar+quarter.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425563607464960914" border="0" /></a><br />The Bazaar Quarter, with its large bazaars (Arabic suq) and teeming mass of humanity, has an abundance of novelty and interest to offer the visitor.<br /><br />Before you go shopping in the bazaar it is well to have some idea in advance of the level of prices for the goods you are interested in. It is normal to haggle, for the seller will always set his first price high enough to leave room for a substantial reduction. But though you may enjoy bargaining it should be remembered that with the low wage levels current in Egypt prices are likely in any event to be cheaper than at home, and that it becomes a visitor from a wealthier country not to press the bargaining too far.<br /><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >El-Azhar Mosque</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfgFCTp6JueCdRoWOKsqud0GCc9a6b5K8A5YVwvyGbJ2Ye5Z6OxoMcKMnf1czDSAI9e8bCJpFkVnznk8CxXYvH4RH2LQxdVqTmTlK29GBp_NxP6BYN7aYhn5fReELO-qWJec0_3ZA9IBNw/s1600-h/El-Azhar+Mosque.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfgFCTp6JueCdRoWOKsqud0GCc9a6b5K8A5YVwvyGbJ2Ye5Z6OxoMcKMnf1czDSAI9e8bCJpFkVnznk8CxXYvH4RH2LQxdVqTmTlK29GBp_NxP6BYN7aYhn5fReELO-qWJec0_3ZA9IBNw/s400/El-Azhar+Mosque.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425563906921227330" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Turning right at the Sharia Gohan el-Qaid intersection, we soon come into Shari el-Azhar, which runs east from the Midan el-Ataba to the square in front of the El-Azhar Mosque. Turning left, we soon reach that square, in which there are many Arabic bookshops.<br /><br />The El-Azhar Mosque (the "most blooming"), the finest building of the Fatimid period, was completed in 972 by Gohar, and in 988 was given the status of a university by Caliph El-Aziz. It was rebuilt after destruction by an earthquake in 1303, and thereafter the rulers and great ones of Egypt including the wealthy Abd el-Rahman Kihya in the 18th C. and Said Pasha, Taufiq and Abbas II in more recent times emulated one another in maintaining and enlarging this venerable building </span><div id="fulltxtlnk001" style="display: none;">... <a href="http://www.planetware.com/cairo/el-azhar-mosque-egy-cai-elazh.htm" onclick="return toggle_fulltxt('001')" onmouseover="window.status='Show full description'; return true;" onmouseout="window.status=''; return true">More ></a></div> <div id="fulltxt001" style="display: inline;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> The rectangular ground plan of the original building is easily recognizable, however, in spite of later additions and alterations. The El-Azhar University is still the leading educational center of the Islamic World.</span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >El-Azhar Mosque El-Taibarsiya Medrese</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMC2SKqXrMKwVgHqN_JZfnWo9uQ6Y_ttl6SmpovMFeoxdUwDa3wfN4enQ-MZmx5CActc5AvTk5UH1B_gDVUqBabgBlLKHpIDM50RF6dcMVErFwfcemiGy38Z7uRKpVWHh0GVX7Ep-rHvL/s1600-h/El-Azhar+Mosque+El-Taibarsiya+Medrese.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMC2SKqXrMKwVgHqN_JZfnWo9uQ6Y_ttl6SmpovMFeoxdUwDa3wfN4enQ-MZmx5CActc5AvTk5UH1B_gDVUqBabgBlLKHpIDM50RF6dcMVErFwfcemiGy38Z7uRKpVWHh0GVX7Ep-rHvL/s400/El-Azhar+Mosque+El-Taibarsiya+Medrese.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425564483724061746" border="0" /></a><br />The main entrance is the Babel-Muzayyini or "Gate of the Barbers", on the northwest side of the building, adjoining the neo Arab facade built by Abbas II. This leads into a small forecourt, on the right of which is the El-Taibarsiya Medrese, with a fine mihrab (prayer niche) of 1309, and on the left the 14th century.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Khan el-Khalili Bazaar</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3sRm4BtKG_dGpIHTkIimaWpYtzboYn-h2hA6W2Ve2h7DeAy7FDJMG9C3qHlMKZYUvtdC9uj7LTSknzZ4GaoqOVSZuJHyNoC5BgHy_LcaNQYLAHplH_bK9MvZVG4vxiQS0EixuzFKuWoAY/s1600-h/Khan+el-Khalili+Bazaar.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 262px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3sRm4BtKG_dGpIHTkIimaWpYtzboYn-h2hA6W2Ve2h7DeAy7FDJMG9C3qHlMKZYUvtdC9uj7LTSknzZ4GaoqOVSZuJHyNoC5BgHy_LcaNQYLAHplH_bK9MvZVG4vxiQS0EixuzFKuWoAY/s400/Khan+el-Khalili+Bazaar.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425564931089188482" border="0" /></a><br />To the east of the gold and silver bazaar in Cairo is the large Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, established about 1400 on the site of a Fatimid castle, which has preserved its old world character, although the shops now cater for the tourist trade (carpets, jewelry, antiques, perfume, etc.).<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >El-Hakim Mosque</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVrxTwDBYU4r_PPVTP3E9jKcu_YmXDNsdyTIXox7_z6j4lS5LPxBzYH14n0umnonyURC640e1jUK68XNMrfnFdKASnpdy6c_ocvupE2zVpNI97O1iYTxSbUPnDM_fILrnR65ysanZjlT_T/s1600-h/El-Hakim+Mosque.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVrxTwDBYU4r_PPVTP3E9jKcu_YmXDNsdyTIXox7_z6j4lS5LPxBzYH14n0umnonyURC640e1jUK68XNMrfnFdKASnpdy6c_ocvupE2zVpNI97O1iYTxSbUPnDM_fILrnR65ysanZjlT_T/s400/El-Hakim+Mosque.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425577813048028242" border="0" /></a><br />Almost at the end of the street which runs north through the old town to Bab el-Futah, on the right, is the entrance to the El-Hakim Mosque, begun in 990 by El-Aziz on a site outside the oldest town walls, on the model of the Ibn Tulun Mosque, and completed in 1012 by his son El-Hakim. The two minarets, standing on the second town wall, which at this point is well preserved, were originally round; their present square casing and the domed top section resembling an Arab incense burner date from the rebuilding of the mosque after the 1303 earthquake.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />El-Mardani Mosque</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />Farther down the Shari el-Ahmar, on the right, is the El-Mardani Mosque, one of the largest in Cairo, was built in 1340 by the Cup-bearer of Sultan Mohammed el-Nasir. The prayer niche beyond the modern concrete dome, borne on ancient Egyptian granite columns, is covered with costly mosaics.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />Gate of Conquests </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgIU9Yk9QOpIC9J7wXXqLMtWP-9jJQU3ppFjkjXBYZaIHXmzneaqe5yMUo63jqgMNhjvI5ASIx17u62NTdS1DQwH-g6awbiIl1eUJj70tGfb5ha07W6Twfyg2y-E_FAs4flLAgXwv-pVlQ/s1600-h/Gate+of+Conquests.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 303px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgIU9Yk9QOpIC9J7wXXqLMtWP-9jJQU3ppFjkjXBYZaIHXmzneaqe5yMUo63jqgMNhjvI5ASIx17u62NTdS1DQwH-g6awbiIl1eUJj70tGfb5ha07W6Twfyg2y-E_FAs4flLAgXwv-pVlQ/s400/Gate+of+Conquests.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425577154549127778" border="0" /></a><br /></span><span id="s_lname" style="font-size:100%;">(Local Name: Bab el-Futuh)</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> The Bab el-Futuh ("Gate of Conquests") at the end of the street and the Bab el-Nasr ("Gate of Victory"), with which it is connected by the old town walls, are similar in form to ancient Roman town gates. It is well worth while to climb up at the gates and walk along the walls, from which there are fine views of the city and surrounding area.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />Ibn Tulun Mosque </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIaZDZBiFlAnpZpcFVV0ouCt49Yf2oUzQu-CZXpqHOlkqKgtSH2TB2epPf34ekLadGbZqfiCDfoqmQi0xKkoTOURI0Fu8bG-_a-f64_MUBtOxTrqyC1DI2ovHYD3-MJmygoAkr0QahaeRY/s1600-h/Ibn+Tulun+Mosque+Minaret.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 265px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIaZDZBiFlAnpZpcFVV0ouCt49Yf2oUzQu-CZXpqHOlkqKgtSH2TB2epPf34ekLadGbZqfiCDfoqmQi0xKkoTOURI0Fu8bG-_a-f64_MUBtOxTrqyC1DI2ovHYD3-MJmygoAkr0QahaeRY/s400/Ibn+Tulun+Mosque+Minaret.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425576737466000706" border="0" /></a><br />From the Midan Salah el-Din Shari el-Saliba leads southwest to the Ibn Tulun Mosque, the second oldest in Cairo. Built in 876-879 by Ahmed ibn Tulun on the 65ft/20m high rocky plateau of Gebel Yashkur and modeled on the Kaaba in Mecca, it was then the largest mosque in existence. The outer walls, almost without decoration, are topped by crenelations.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />Ibn Tulun Mosque Minaret</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVR9-UHlFVSJ9pM8pFVpD_Z0QMzeCBNSUsrh8LdoVnKQqLM4O87u670s72GWS2-LY-dMwnG2rw2_SrkCngP49d1i0H1SYRboqpyK0nc9JL4kCPGWchlhBzysUBZe8L46TUTUmqh7K6uFjs/s1600-h/Ibn+Tulun+Mosque+Minaret.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVR9-UHlFVSJ9pM8pFVpD_Z0QMzeCBNSUsrh8LdoVnKQqLM4O87u670s72GWS2-LY-dMwnG2rw2_SrkCngP49d1i0H1SYRboqpyK0nc9JL4kCPGWchlhBzysUBZe8L46TUTUmqh7K6uFjs/s400/Ibn+Tulun+Mosque+Minaret.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425576112049966674" border="0" /></a><br />The 130ft/40m high minaret in the north forecourt, with a fine horseshoe arch over the entrance and a spiral staircase in the interior, is modeled on the minarets of the Great Mosque of Samarra on the Tigris. From its platform (173 easy steps) there are superb views, particularly in the evening, extending in the north over the sea of houses and the Nile Valley to the Delta, in the west and south to the Pyramids and in the east to the Moqattam Hills.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />Mosque of Mohammed el-Nasir </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistqwg75bFKOgMz0DRoqHBHbv3WDvXJSmzl5-3sXHn26TzTGg-VNx7CGsVB93vPozIdnpC5pjyZXsyOsoAAk7k1_qJAQdqeSyIPpYb4gnP-2p_D3claA8N7QeIPuusySsj6qhL-3ih3wVa/s1600-h/Mosque+of+Mohammed+el-Nasir.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistqwg75bFKOgMz0DRoqHBHbv3WDvXJSmzl5-3sXHn26TzTGg-VNx7CGsVB93vPozIdnpC5pjyZXsyOsoAAk7k1_qJAQdqeSyIPpYb4gnP-2p_D3claA8N7QeIPuusySsj6qhL-3ih3wVa/s400/Mosque+of+Mohammed+el-Nasir.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425574322263344114" border="0" /></a><br />On the north side of the Qalaun Mosque we come to the Mosque of Mohammed el-Nasir (1304), one of the great masterpieces of Islamic architecture in Egypt. It is entered by a Gothic doorway from a church at Akka (Acre) in Syria. The beautiful minaret, the sanctuary (to the left) and the founder's tomb (right) preserve some of their original delicate plaster ornament.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />Mausoleum of Qalaun </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />On the right of the long corridor is the Mausoleum of Qalaun, one of the finest Arab buildings in Cairo, completed in 1293 by Qalaun's son Mohammed el-Nasir; it has a richly ornamented prayer niche and fine marble and mother-of-pearl mosaics.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />Muayyad Mosque </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiygVmxoMhcoxYmqbBSzk5D5Z-oGApAt1jgRLQvLwAk7W9euB9MNYG2j7rtQsnqU3V3ruZCNW4V2HHVpTmSSrlKDBpjfsXG4MbDnSZIWyIjgBet7cuI6DrjNs8vq-CpbvX7b-_8HF8FWnmq/s1600-h/Muayyad+Mosque.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiygVmxoMhcoxYmqbBSzk5D5Z-oGApAt1jgRLQvLwAk7W9euB9MNYG2j7rtQsnqU3V3ruZCNW4V2HHVpTmSSrlKDBpjfsXG4MbDnSZIWyIjgBet7cuI6DrjNs8vq-CpbvX7b-_8HF8FWnmq/s400/Muayyad+Mosque.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425573036006325874" border="0" /></a><br />On its two massive towers are the minarets of the dilapidated Muayyad Mosque, also known as El-Ahmar, the "Red Mosque", which was begun in 1405 by Sheikh El-Mahmudi Muayyad and completed a year after his death (1410). The bronze gate at the entrance, the finest in Cairo, came from the Sultan Hasan Mosque. The magnificent three aisled sanctuary has a beautiful painted wooden ceiling.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />Museum of Islamic Art</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF74MoT03OZR7v_FiPhGLz5PZEXQ3TeTnvbSdz81TAhXEw8HCrLSaTSF0qwLtAEOir-KK_jeCPCcQldByrN_9-TveK-ozoMRkdU_jc4jemwd4X5Nt0rcsKIjRqlPpNfJdswxdKoHiJzHsP/s1600-h/Museum+of+Islamic+Art.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 224px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF74MoT03OZR7v_FiPhGLz5PZEXQ3TeTnvbSdz81TAhXEw8HCrLSaTSF0qwLtAEOir-KK_jeCPCcQldByrN_9-TveK-ozoMRkdU_jc4jemwd4X5Nt0rcsKIjRqlPpNfJdswxdKoHiJzHsP/s400/Museum+of+Islamic+Art.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425572596359978754" border="0" /></a><br />From the Midan el-Ataba, immediately southeast of the Ezbekiya Gardens, the wide Shari el-Qala runs southeast in a dead straight line to the foot of the Citadel. About a quarter of the way there it comes to the Midan Ahmed Maher, on the north side of which is the Museum of Islamic Art, founded by the German architectand scholar Franz Pasha (d. 1915), the finest collection of its kind in the world, with masterpieces from every Islamic country.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />Sultan Hasan Mosque</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG4M4cAf1_sQ2JVe40FTbKuB0DEmBrRIy8V1yAYVRHlKH8q_p7cEo439a5TBLyd0KjYfgAOpMebos8ZNSvIPb35s2ZMJXlhjMaQA3UdPzhWFtHBnsMEMKuqcs-aptFMuds19K_QhuidOAS/s1600-h/Sultan+Hasan+Mosque.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG4M4cAf1_sQ2JVe40FTbKuB0DEmBrRIy8V1yAYVRHlKH8q_p7cEo439a5TBLyd0KjYfgAOpMebos8ZNSvIPb35s2ZMJXlhjMaQA3UdPzhWFtHBnsMEMKuqcs-aptFMuds19K_QhuidOAS/s400/Sultan+Hasan+Mosque.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425572326709359154" border="0" /></a><br />On the west side of the Midan Mohammed Ali is the Sultan Hasan Mosque, built in 1356-63, perhaps by a Syrian architect, for the Mameluke Sultan Hasan el-Nasir. Situated on a shelving rock below the Citadel, it is perhaps the finest example of Arab-Egyptian architecture. The exterior, with its large areas of stone, is reminiscent of an ancient Egyptian temple. The facades are crowned by a boldly projecting stalactitic cornice, the pinnacles of which have been restored. The wide wall surfaces are relieved by blind niches and twin round arched windows. The mausoleum which projects from the southeast front is roofed with 180ft/ 55m high dome of Arab-Turkish type (rebuilt in 18th C.). The massive main doorway at the north corner is almost 85ft </span><div id="fulltxtlnk001" style="display: none;">... <a href="http://www.planetware.com/cairo/sultan-hasan-mosque-egy-cai-sulhas.htm" onclick="return toggle_fulltxt('001')" onmouseover="window.status='Show full description'; return true;" onmouseout="window.status=''; return true">More ></a></div> <div id="fulltxt001" style="display: inline;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> /26m high; and the minaret at the south corner is the tallest in Cairo (267ft/81.5m). The ground plan is in the form of an irregular Pentagon covering an area of 9,450 sq yd/7,900 sq. m, into which the crucifer shape of the original medrese has bee very skillfully incorporated.</span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />Cairo Tower</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdUQ4aU0H3xTM263G8iu_0DjDKmEl4fQqKYmMD3HfAWxK113BbXA-yeWLBggpa31M2NjVQEfPxXZFvtkfQ1ilDsq8TfEVlzF_6TVdscVbCx2Km8GojAYnHwq-pw7ryAblGu8sySySA2LX/s1600-h/Cairo+Tower.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVdUQ4aU0H3xTM263G8iu_0DjDKmEl4fQqKYmMD3HfAWxK113BbXA-yeWLBggpa31M2NjVQEfPxXZFvtkfQ1ilDsq8TfEVlzF_6TVdscVbCx2Km8GojAYnHwq-pw7ryAblGu8sySySA2LX/s400/Cairo+Tower.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425571792201144098" border="0" /></a><br /></span><span id="s_lname" style="font-size:100%;">(Local Name: El-Borg)</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> In the southern half of Gezira is the great landmark and emblem of the modern city of Cairo, the 614ft/187m high Cairo Tower, with observation platforms and a restaurant from which there are panoramic views of the city.<br /><br /></span><span id="s_lname" style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Old Cairo<br /></span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7JLd9IJYMTEaTusMpUNJz77c4FpDNHAqKzT4iDZkCGja5WBNXHC-H4Qqu8S8ztKrMo-ciow379KzpHd3bxhTjoQ_aw2hsYRw3NrjZEWpPrE120wnoEBm8hL-4BaC1wRdjJpKgCkYemJOn/s1600-h/old+cairo.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 277px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7JLd9IJYMTEaTusMpUNJz77c4FpDNHAqKzT4iDZkCGja5WBNXHC-H4Qqu8S8ztKrMo-ciow379KzpHd3bxhTjoQ_aw2hsYRw3NrjZEWpPrE120wnoEBm8hL-4BaC1wRdjJpKgCkYemJOn/s400/old+cairo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425571232773739650" border="0" /></a><br /></span><span id="s_lname" style="font-size:100%;">(Local Name: Misr el-Oadima)</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> There is much of interest to see in the southern district of Old Cairo, on the right bank of the Nile opposite the south end of the island of Roda. In the southern part of this district is the Qasr el-Shama quarter, mainly inhabited by Christians, which lies within the walls (still partly preserved) of the Roman fortress of Babylon.<br /><br /></span><span id="s_lname" style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Church of St Sergius</span><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ITg1bOQNSHxE_ZR1Q_36mtiagQRDpdKbS9N4jfdQ8m2JJP_77sihRDVAPTjDbCuTCNLNk1MSGkDxw0liz85Op-jVt4nDYdmoQkZbmsj1eX-rs6e_LcwK7_lBvaqW2l45GAJzh9G4QvKr/s1600-h/Church+of+St+Sergius.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 380px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ITg1bOQNSHxE_ZR1Q_36mtiagQRDpdKbS9N4jfdQ8m2JJP_77sihRDVAPTjDbCuTCNLNk1MSGkDxw0liz85Op-jVt4nDYdmoQkZbmsj1eX-rs6e_LcwK7_lBvaqW2l45GAJzh9G4QvKr/s400/Church+of+St+Sergius.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425570812651821138" border="0" /></a><br /></span><span id="s_lname" style="font-size:100%;">(Local Name: Abu Sarga)</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> The area of the Roman fortress of Babylon is entered between two massive Roman towers. In a closely packed huddle of houses is the Church of Abu Sarga, founded in the fourth-fifth century and rebuilt in the 10th-11th centuries. According to tradition the Virgin and Child found refuge here for a month during their flight into Egypt.<br /><br />The church represents the basic type of the Egyptian-Byzantine basilica of the early period, still favored by the Copts. It has a nave and aisles, with exposed roof beams over the nave, a raised transept (choir) and galleries in the flat roofed aisles. The side walls of the nave consist of two rows of columns, one above the other, with keeled arches </span><div id="fulltxtlnk001" style="display: none;">... <a href="http://www.planetware.com/cairo/church-of-st-sergius-egy-cai-css.htm" onclick="return toggle_fulltxt('001')" onmouseover="window.status='Show full description'; return true;" onmouseout="window.status=''; return true">More ></a></div> <div id="fulltxt001" style="display: inline;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> between the columns; the galleries are supported on alternate groups of two columns and a masonry pier. The marble columns, taken from ancient buildings, are used without regard to their diameter or architectural form.<br /><br />The church is entered by a doorway at the southwest corner. The three original doorways in the west front, now walled up, led into the narthex, which was occupied during services by catechumens (converts under instruction) awaiting baptism. The narthex is divided into three parts by wooden screens. In the middle section is an old piscina, used by the priest for washing the feet of male worshipers on the Feast of the Epiphany; the north section, with a recess, is the Baptistery. The narthex is separated from the nave by another wooden screen. The nave, with an acute angled timber roof, is traditionally reserved for men, while the women sit in the aisles. Steps lead up to the sanctuary and two side chapels, which are shut off by wooden screens, paneled and richly adorned with carvings in wood and ivory. In the sanctuary (heikal) are the canopied high altar and an apse with steps on which the priests used to sit.</span><!--PAR1--></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />Coptic Museum </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_61LX4_AEf5ZfKWgdMPz0ohTSF2Z5o-Kaj7qqnvhnE_Mgh7v_UzmeAPS3miARqfneCjE9RDdvijYSjkBbXVqrTWvGb224w2t_0lReyq_YBcKFmDh2kmx7UMnN8oLzl9Nafr-ld_k9NedU/s1600-h/Coptic+Museum.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 394px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_61LX4_AEf5ZfKWgdMPz0ohTSF2Z5o-Kaj7qqnvhnE_Mgh7v_UzmeAPS3miARqfneCjE9RDdvijYSjkBbXVqrTWvGb224w2t_0lReyq_YBcKFmDh2kmx7UMnN8oLzl9Nafr-ld_k9NedU/s400/Coptic+Museum.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425570551767396626" border="0" /></a><br />Attached to El-Moallaqa is the Coptic Museum, founded in 1910 by Morkos Pasha Simaika, the largest and finest collection of Coptic material. The museum was erected at the beginning of the 20th century, using architectural elements from old Coptic buildings, and later extended. In addition to works of religious art, it contains Coptic arts and crafts and everyday objects from the third to the 18th century, particularly items of the early medieval period.<br /><br />This museum contains the largest collection of Coptic textiles "wool, linen and silk." It was the most important industry during the early Christian period in Egypt.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Shari el-Muski </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmdSx4bMXpn3CZilFhuocss4XkQJRlLE8EzwqgQtsJ1CVmEFQLuCop12m5uT2Q3JhFM0tbe6kmHr9hhryzrcscAoTwn5Chww0MxuVSFHOoneSXMct5tR0KYSP-UxxY51LBdwApYLLwKUkF/s1600-h/Shari+el-Muski.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmdSx4bMXpn3CZilFhuocss4XkQJRlLE8EzwqgQtsJ1CVmEFQLuCop12m5uT2Q3JhFM0tbe6kmHr9hhryzrcscAoTwn5Chww0MxuVSFHOoneSXMct5tR0KYSP-UxxY51LBdwApYLLwKUkF/s400/Shari+el-Muski.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425570390642773794" border="0" /></a><br />The main thoroughfare of the old Arab town of Cairo is formed by Shari el-Muski, a street laid out in the first half of the 19th century, and its continuation Shari Gohar el-Qaid, which leads southeast from the Ezbekiya Gardens. Externally these streets, with their European-style shops, have lost their Oriental character, but they still present all the noise and bustle, the constant lively activity of the East.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />Burial Mosque of Qait Bey</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxHnOJQVaz4IlmO7J3K4RTrq1o1sGRVoXPIZKldPP1dG639hrpO9_8oX3Nh4x_xUZnZUiPBuLkYua3jNb8OYYafZqMQjWaEQf_rJSFhxqMCXm_YLcIFhRFOAWHgXJBfZkjr30UUcptXyVI/s1600-h/Burial+Mosque+of+Qait+Bey.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxHnOJQVaz4IlmO7J3K4RTrq1o1sGRVoXPIZKldPP1dG639hrpO9_8oX3Nh4x_xUZnZUiPBuLkYua3jNb8OYYafZqMQjWaEQf_rJSFhxqMCXm_YLcIFhRFOAWHgXJBfZkjr30UUcptXyVI/s400/Burial+Mosque+of+Qait+Bey.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425567872943482066" border="0" /></a><br />Some 660yd/ 600m southwest of the Barquq Mosque, in the southern group of mausoleum is the Burial Mosque of Qait Bey (1474), perhaps the finest of them all. Notable features are the decoration of the walls in bands of different colors, the delicate reticulation of the dome and the elegant form of the 130ft/40m high minaret. The prayer hall is floored with marble mosaic. Adjoining the splendidly colorful mausoleum, with a richly ornamented reading desk, is a hall containing the tombs of the Sultan's four wives.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />Convent-Mosque of Sultan Barquq</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />Of the various tombs in the northern group is the Convent-Mosque of Sultan Barquq, a square structure measuring 240ft/73m each way with two minarets and two splendid domes (1400-05 and 1410). In the sanctuary is a fine stone pulpit of 1483.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />Moqattam Hills</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MRJu9oWqlNg7fSvpo6vgVa1iIW-UUezu4fUooAaufTY7056g7y92igiMnEXB2xlvLllWON7We9kTleQBJaIAjtXprxCkcsWRb9Srt6YYGAIujUVA5Tp_57Kc5uzcpocds9AAOfHNg3hH/s1600-h/Moqattam+Hills.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 296px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MRJu9oWqlNg7fSvpo6vgVa1iIW-UUezu4fUooAaufTY7056g7y92igiMnEXB2xlvLllWON7We9kTleQBJaIAjtXprxCkcsWRb9Srt6YYGAIujUVA5Tp_57Kc5uzcpocds9AAOfHNg3hH/s400/Moqattam+Hills.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425567129908775506" border="0" /></a><br /></span><span id="s_lname" style="font-size:100%;">(Local Name: Gebel Giyushi)</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> An attractive trip (half day) may be made from Cairo to the Moqattam Hills, or Gebel Giyushi, to the east of the city. From this 650ft/200m high range of hills of nummulitic limestone (fossils, including fossil trees) there are superb views; a particularly good viewpoint is the rocky spur to the south of the conspicuous Giyushi Mosque (1085). The area is sometimes closed to the public as a military zone; care should be taken not to photograph military features. A short distance northwest of the mosque, picturesquely situated on the slopes of the hills, is the Bektashi Convent, belonging to a Turkish Order of Dervishes.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Tombs of the Caliphs</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizgsJ5avdWCzN4gnXIwT7sINJ2HIHZcHWXfBdRInHUDM3BWJdbmXHuH0ArZdqEi8eJMCEB2B4BfTZj-g1EpVPPPaeGj7muuRv0hegIM-XTT2Kg2qwsdf7vdvEpc3gzERSAmAJCJHpWeS_l/s1600-h/Tombs-of-the-Caliphs.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 298px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizgsJ5avdWCzN4gnXIwT7sINJ2HIHZcHWXfBdRInHUDM3BWJdbmXHuH0ArZdqEi8eJMCEB2B4BfTZj-g1EpVPPPaeGj7muuRv0hegIM-XTT2Kg2qwsdf7vdvEpc3gzERSAmAJCJHpWeS_l/s400/Tombs-of-the-Caliphs.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425566381454572274" border="0" /></a><br />Of particular interest are the so-called Tombs of the Caliphs (reached from Bab el-Nasr or from the Citadel), most of which date from the time of the second, or Circassian, Mameluke dynasty (1382-1517).<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />Wadi Hof</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />An attractive excursion from Helwan is to the Wadi Hof, 2mi/3km north, which is noted for its scenic beauty, its curious fossils (examples of which can be seen in the Cairo museums) and the desert vegetation which springs to life after rain.<br /><br /></span><h2><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="mw-headline">Get around</span></span></h2> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The American University in Cairo has made a good map of Cairo. It is a must-have when you want to get around on your own. CAIRO A-Z from The Palm Press offers a more detailed city map in 300 pages. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_metro"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">By metro</span></span></h3> <div class="thumb tright"><div class="thumbinner" style="width: 182px;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Image:Cairo-Metro.png" class="image" title="Cairo metro system"><img alt="Cairo metro system" src="http://wikitravel.org/upload/shared//thumb/5/54/Cairo-Metro.png/180px-Cairo-Metro.png" class="thumbimage" width="180" border="0" height="313" /></a></span> <div class="thumbcaption"><div class="magnify" style="float: right;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Image:Cairo-Metro.png" class="internal" title="Enlarge"><img src="http://files.wikitravel.org/mw/skins/common/images/magnify-clip.png" alt="" width="15" height="11" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;">Cairo metro system</span></div></div></div> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Cairo and Algiers are the only two cities on the African continent with <b>metro</b> systems. The Algerian metro system although complete is due to be opened early 2010. While Cairo's metro system fully functioning is modern and sleek, the two lines are all too limited in scope. But they are a major boon in the areas they cover, and the flat rate fare of 1.00 LE per trip is<span><span> a bargain. Visitors attempting to use the metro in Cairo should try not to be put off when they go to a ticket window to purchase a ticket. Egyptians do not understand the concept of queuing, so be prepared to politely but assertively, navigate your way through the crowed to the ticket window . The key interchanges are Mubarak, at Midan Ramses, and Sadat, below Midan Tahrir. </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">The Cairo Metro has stations in Dokki and Maadi, among other places. The Metro is also a hassle-free way to get to <a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Cairo/Giza" title="Cairo/Giza">Giza</a> to see the Pyramids, although you'll need to complete the trip taking a bus all the way (change to bus for "Al-Haram" at the Giza train station). Plans have been made to add new lines to include Mohandiseen and Zamalek, as well as the airport; however, little progress seems to be made on this. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Note that there are two cars of each train reserved for women, which are located in the middle section of the train. The metro stops running at approximately midnight and starts up again around 6am. There are no timetables, but departures are very frequent. The metro is better to use if you wish to avoid traffic jam. It is secure, costs one pound one trip and has a clear European navigation system. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_taxi"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">By taxi</span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The fleet of black-and-white <b>taxis</b> that ply Cairo's streets are convenient but a hassle — communication can be an issue and the meters, which are heirs from antique eras of gas prices, are not normally used. Prices are, however, not erratic, and any Cairene knows how much the driver expects depending on time and distance spent in the car, and perhaps the traffic (relative to normal Cairo levels, of course). Because of a recent 20% raise in gasoline prices, prices could be slightly higher, but still very cheap for most tourists. Additionally, it is highly recommended that you have exact change before you enter a cab; drivers are reluctant if not resistant to giving change, but if you can present them with the exact amount for the journey they will more likely accede without haggling or complaint. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Ordinary Egyptians will never state prices beforehand. Instead the correct sum is paid through the window after leaving the car. Some drivers might protest as they expect tourists to pay more than the standard rates. As a tourist it's probably best to meet these expectations as it only represents a very small increase in hard currency terms. Avoid negotiations - it takes lots of time and you end up at a price you won't like. Instead, use the "walk-away"-technique if they don't agree to your (reasonable) price. As long the driver does not leave the car, you're all right. If this happens, consult someone nearby. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">As a tourist you might prefer to state a price beforehand, which may prevent ripoffs but will require you to quote slightly above the local price to get a quick nod. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Try to get a taxi on the fly instead of those loitering outside 5-star hotels and restaurants to minimize price inflation. Using a big hotel as your destination may also inflate the price. Always choose the taxi, don't let the taxi choose you. </span></p> <table class="pp_infobox" style="float: right; clear: right; margin-left: 1em; width: 40%;" border="0" cellpadding="8" cellspacing="1"> <tbody><tr> <td style="border: 1px solid ; background-color: rgb(243, 243, 255); padding-left: 0.5em; padding-right: 0.5em;" width="100%" align="left"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Sample taxi prices</b></span> </p><p> </p> <ul><li> <span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Short trips within one area</b> LE5 </span></li><li> <span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Downtown to Midan Hussein</b> LE7 </span></li><li> <span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Downtown to Mohandesin</b> LE10 </span></li><li> <span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Downtown to Pyramids</b></span> LE25 </li><li> <span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Downtown or Zamalek to Airport</b> LE40 </span></li><li> <span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Zamalek to Downtown</b></span> LE7 </li><li> <span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Zamalek to Midan Hussein</b> LE15 </span></li></ul> </td></tr></tbody></table> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Cabbies usually expect more money (2 or 3 LE) for ferrying more people. If you decide not to negotiate the price beforehand (this is the better method) be ready to jump ship and/or bargain hard if the cabbie brings up the fare after you are in the car. They rarely accept more than 4 people to a taxi. Also add 5-7 LE driving late at night. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">In March 2006 a new fleet of 500 bright yellow taxis hit the road. They run on natural gas, and will soon add up to a total of 1500 cars, all equipped with air-conditioning, meters that actually work, and credit card readers. The meter starts at 3.50 LE, and then 1 LE for every additional kilometer. The drivers are not allowed to smoke in the cars. They are referred to as 'City Cabs' or Cairo Cabs', and can be a bit more expensive (and less of an adventure) than the black-and-white cabs for short hops. However, for longer distances they are the way to go for price and comfort. From within Cairo call 0104343438 - 19155. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Never continue traveling in any vehicle which you deem to be unsafe or the driver to be driving recklessly, specially in the dark on unlit roads, or in single track highways where overtaking is dangerous. If you fell unsafe simply tell the driver to slow down, if he does not do this immediately ask him to stop and simply get out and walk away. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">In recent months the Egyptian government has started a scheme to replace the old black and white taxis with new white taxis with a black and white checkered strip along the side with meters to work along side the yellow and black private taxis. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_bus_2"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">By bus</span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The large red, white and blue public buses cover the entire city and are much cheaper, but are usually crowded. However, there are the similar air-conditioned buses that charge 2 L.E. for the trip and prohibit standing on the bus. They can be found in the main squares in Cairo. Also found in main squares are the smaller mini-buses that are usually orange and white or red, white and blue. Because of problems with sexual harassment women travelers are advised only to take the small micro-buses and buses which prohibit standing. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Apart from the main bus stations, buses can be hailed from street-level. Buses are seldom marked with destination, instead passengers shout out (or use a number of sign-language like hand codes) their destinations and if the bus goes this place it will stop. On micro-buses, the fare starts at 50 piastres and goes up to 1 LE. Travelers unfamiliar with Cairo can ask bus drivers or passengers to let them know where there stop is. Don't be shy - even if you don't speak Arabic, simply politely blurt out the name of your destination to the bus driver or a friendly looking passenger and they will take care of you. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b> Late night bus riders </b> Take note, bus frequency, length of route, and in some cases, fees can vary during the late evening hours onward. In some cases, a route may terminate, without notice, short of your destination. When this takes place, locals reply upon private citizens hoping to make some additional money, to get them to their final destination. As always, use caution, if you should choose to accept private transportation. One final note on late night bus transportation, since many mini- buses will not depart until the bus is nearly full, you should be prepared for a lengthy period of time, while the driver waits for enough people to board. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">There are a number of major bus stations (mawqaf مواقف) throughout the city. One of the largest is conveniently located behind the Egyptian Museum in Midan Tahrir. Note that there are actually two stations - the main bus station for the city buses, and the micro-bus station behind it. Travelers who want to visit the Pyramids, for example, can catch a seat in a micro-bus for approximately 2 pounds. Visitors wishing to go to the pyramids and see a bus or micro-bus driver shouting Haram, shoud always before boarding make a pyramid triangle with your hands to ensure that the driver is driving to the actual pyramids themselves, and not just to the district of Haram, which although is fairly close to the pyramids, can terminate a fair distance from the pyramid entrance. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">There are also bus stations in Midan Ramses, under the overpass. Buses run from Ramses to Heliopolis, City Stars Mall and other destinations not covered by the Tahrir bus station. </span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-19348143706728044772010-01-10T05:20:00.000-08:002010-01-10T06:08:13.187-08:00Capri "A celebrated beauty spot and coastal resort since the days of the Roman Republic"<span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3JS_cbT4PqYq2hmP_Ym6Gq7ivwPEMXWHn8T-K1uScjrZ5-WDCbZAIl4rulTEluxUYd_nKs56F2ZAFxLSkkpsi9Y-HSUi_fKmOl22fRNTBDcEawVu8KdzOWe-Kcqhyq0p10ZoBuZkA_cq/s1600-h/capri.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3JS_cbT4PqYq2hmP_Ym6Gq7ivwPEMXWHn8T-K1uScjrZ5-WDCbZAIl4rulTEluxUYd_nKs56F2ZAFxLSkkpsi9Y-HSUi_fKmOl22fRNTBDcEawVu8KdzOWe-Kcqhyq0p10ZoBuZkA_cq/s400/capri.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425106786513219890" border="0" /></a><br /></span><div style="text-align: justify;"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The Island of <strong>Capri</strong> is one of the most picturesque and visited locations in <strong>Campania</strong>. Its unique beauties were celebrated in ancient times and later published for the world in <strong>Homer</strong>'s works: Odysseus (known in Latin as Ulysses) sailing past the island, narrowly escaped the fate of those who hear the voices of the Sirens.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Thus the island has a mythical charm, as well as its natural treasures, through the writings and legends of Ancient Greece. Its breathtaking landscapes and beauty stretch from the rocky caves around the island to the edge of the horizon, and has been an inspiration to poets, lovers and travelers throughout the centuries. Geologically speaking, the island is Karst, underlaid with limestone which has been eroded by dissolution over the years forming fantastical ridges towers and sinkholes in the rock. This process over time separated <strong>Capri</strong> from the mainland.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The island of <strong>Capri</strong> is composed of two municipalities: <strong>Capri</strong> and <strong>Anacapri</strong>, each with their own administration and touch of regional rivalry. The latter is built on a high plateau, affording staggering views of sheer cliffs from dizzying vantage points.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The sea emerging below is very deep, and harsh jagged caves have formed there. The most famous of these is the <strong>Grotta Azzurra</strong> or the "<em>Blue Grotto</em>", now known to have been a Roman bathing place. This lagoon is haunted by a dazzling shifting turquoise blue. Small openings in the back of the cave admit daylight which, reflecting on the limestone floor and walls, creates a fantastical and magical atmosphere. It has attracted visitors and inspired awe from all who have seen its ancient limestone walls and learned of the history of this oceanic cave.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">In contrast to the intimate space and vivid color of the cavern, are the three peaks further out to sea, emerging from the azure blue water, pointing toward the sky. These peaks are known collectively as the <strong>Faraglioni</strong>. Their names are: <strong>Stella</strong>, <strong>di Mezzo</strong> and <strong>Scopolo</strong> or <strong>Fuori</strong><strong>Capri</strong> are known technically as stacks and are formed when erosion causes a solid land mass to divide and it becomes separated by water, or when a cave or natural rocky arch collapses. A fragment of the land is then isolated from its original body in the shape of a vertical column or steep rock rising out of the sea. The <strong>Faraglioni</strong> are famed for their breathtaking beauty and home of a variety of rare wildlife. (meaning outside, probably because it is the furthest away). These three splendid fragments of<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVheIJFQIeVDw_cWfhso76T7wHinO5MdHLJwNd0W71rM9NCNQcUqN9LPGMtDWplPq8cK31tsnLWqorxZIEm22Ahle-qQZf47MRupFbt8IiIhcoHet4b0w3Sf2hoAd_0iksb57N3F-EkHUS/s1600-h/capri.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 145px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVheIJFQIeVDw_cWfhso76T7wHinO5MdHLJwNd0W71rM9NCNQcUqN9LPGMtDWplPq8cK31tsnLWqorxZIEm22Ahle-qQZf47MRupFbt8IiIhcoHet4b0w3Sf2hoAd_0iksb57N3F-EkHUS/s400/capri.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425109724457847426" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The phenomenon of <strong>Bradyseism</strong> is another fascinating geological aspect of <strong>Capri</strong> and of all the<strong> Phlaegraean Fields</strong>. <strong>Bradyseism</strong> is a process in which the surface of the earth rises and falls due to the movement of volcanic lava deep beneath the surface of the earth. Its effects can be seen in <strong>Capri</strong> in various spots, including the afore mentioned <strong>Grotta Azzurra</strong>.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">When the tide is low, Roman remains are visible through the water on the floor of the cave, suggesting that in bygone times the ground in and around the blue grotto which had itself been the site of a Roman villa, was higher. The artifacts on the floor of the cave are thought to be connected with the <strong>Emperor Tiberius</strong> who may have used the cave as a bathing place, and probably decorated the floor with statues. It also seems that other entrances to the grotto were created in an attempt to improve irrigation and later abandoned, supplying spaces in the rock by which sunlight could enter with dramatic effect. So unless visitors simply wish to swim in the grotto, it is wise to coincide visiting times with the falling tide.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>Tiberius</strong> loved the island, and having obtained it from the possession of <strong>Naples</strong> in exchange for <strong>Ischia</strong>, he had a series of villas built there, and spent the last ten years of his tyrannical reign secluded from the manic realities of Roman life amid the tranquillity and beauty of this unique island. He also founded the world's first Archeological Museum to display the fossils and artifacts discovered during excavation carried out by his workers for the building of the villas.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">For the <strong>Greeks</strong> and later the <strong>Romans</strong> till Tiberius, <strong>Capri</strong> was an island of boar goats, and other animals. Hence the Island was named <em>Kapros</em>, which in Greek means "wild boar".</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>Capri</strong> was colonized by the <strong>Greeks</strong>, and was later adopted as a possession of <strong>Naples</strong>, till the <strong>Emperor Augustus</strong> upon visiting the Island saw a dry twig of the island in flower. The element of the miraculous in this made a profound impression on him, as from that time on he did everything in his power to obtain the Island. Having achieved his aim, bartering Ischia for <strong>Capri</strong> with the Neapolitans, he commenced with a multi villa building project probably as many as twelve, rendering the island habitable.</span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br />La Piazzetta</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGrsC7u5NsabAgycsetbf7I131Z30UxEdX4O-Cwy7HfBUpCE0MOMWmhnVuDnRerLBG2hmoZ1BW0LGGtIrcmIJ7dpqaq1-3-V7kCuMDo5QFiTPYwD422Qvk5zGjH9o8IWG_QrkuU5bA0d2K/s1600-h/la+piazzaetta.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGrsC7u5NsabAgycsetbf7I131Z30UxEdX4O-Cwy7HfBUpCE0MOMWmhnVuDnRerLBG2hmoZ1BW0LGGtIrcmIJ7dpqaq1-3-V7kCuMDo5QFiTPYwD422Qvk5zGjH9o8IWG_QrkuU5bA0d2K/s400/la+piazzaetta.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425105831120039570" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></span><p><span style="font-size:100%;">This pretty square's original name was "<strong>Piazza Umberto I</strong>", but from the 1930's it has been known as "<strong><em>La Piazzetta</em></strong>" (the use of the suffix "<em>etta</em>" in Italian is a diminutive, and is used in affectionate reference to the square's small size).</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">In the past it was just the site of the fish market, but has since risen in prestige. Now popular for its bars, it is the choice meeting point for islanders, visitors and villa owners, some of whom are almost as famous as the island itself.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Visitors arriving in <strong>Capri</strong>, generally take the Funicular (a cableway) from the port to the terrace near the "<strong><em>Piazzetta</em></strong>". The journey up through the island, and the marvelous view from the top, are great moments to catch holiday snapshots of this breathtakingly beautiful island.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">In any Italian town, the "<strong>Piazza</strong>" is a significant spot, being the hub of social life, where one engages in the "national sports" of relaxing, socializing, looking, and being looked at. No setting is more ideally suited to this than <strong>Capri</strong>'s "<strong><em>Piazzetta</em></strong>".</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Furnished with fashionable bars, set amidst staggering views, surrounded with elements of historic, classic and modern architecture, it is not surprising it has become known as "The World's Living Room". The four famous bars are surrounded by palaces restored in the Seventeenth Century, including the <strong>Cerio Palace</strong>, dating back to the Thirteen Hundreds and the Angevin era.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Alongside stands the <strong>Clock Tower</strong> (<strong>Torre dell'Orologio</strong>), originally the Bell Tower of <strong>Saint Stephen's Cathedral</strong>. Its interior was made from materials re used from the floor of the ancient <strong>Emperor Tiberius</strong>' <strong><em>Villa Jovis</em></strong>.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">To the South-East side of the square stands the <strong>Town Hall</strong> which used to be the <strong>Episcopal Palace</strong>, restored in the Seventeen Hundreds. A passage, linking the Palace to <strong>Saint Stephen's Cathedral</strong>, remains as evidence of its older religious function.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">From fish market, to fashionable meeting place, the "<strong><em>Piazzetta</em></strong>" has always been the nucleus of the island's social life. Locals, fishermen, the rich, the famous the well to do, and countless travelers have enjoyed it as the perfect place for relaxation and pleasure.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Faraglioni</span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5q2eAW2tTWpW6r-B1Jo7CULpmiqzDaLuJ9GJ_uXhCfEUgStcuGFq8xtW1TIjskPA9gY19YpUuf89o1WaOr8oyKDnPrNN375UrOPnAUZXWXQTgpwbH53FLHVsjGgyumMs5qiHYXmT5F40H/s1600-h/faraglioni+di+capri_.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5q2eAW2tTWpW6r-B1Jo7CULpmiqzDaLuJ9GJ_uXhCfEUgStcuGFq8xtW1TIjskPA9gY19YpUuf89o1WaOr8oyKDnPrNN375UrOPnAUZXWXQTgpwbH53FLHVsjGgyumMs5qiHYXmT5F40H/s400/faraglioni+di+capri_.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425105624458922754" border="0" /></a></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Carving their own niche in the skyline of <strong>Capri</strong>, sculpted by the wind and sea, and home to rare plants and wildlife, stand <strong><em>Stella</em></strong> (Star), <strong>Faraglione di Mezzo</strong> (in between) and <strong><em>Scopolo</em></strong>. These three rocky stacks, rising from the azure <strong>Tyrrhenian Sea</strong>, are collectively known as the <strong><em>Faraglioni</em></strong>. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Backdrop to holiday snapshots and postcards over the world, in modern times, the <strong><em>Faraglioni</em></strong><strong><em>Stella</em></strong>, the stack still connected to the mainland, is known for its spectacular fans of spray from waves on choppy days. The windblown sea swirls into the <strong><em>Faraglione</em></strong>'s underwater hollow, before erupting, showering down onto the rocks. have stimulated visitors and writers imagination throughout the ages as far back as antiquity, and were the setting for many myths. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Quieter days at the <strong><em>Faraglioni</em></strong> are also charged with magical charm. Sunlight glancing on the surface of the water, mingles with light cast up from spaces in the rock below, creating fascinating shifting shades of iridescent blue around the rocks. <strong><em>Scopolo</em></strong>, the <strong><em>Faraglione</em></strong><strong>blue lizards</strong>, found nowhere else on Earth. furthest from land, is famous for its unique </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The ultimate touch of mystique surrounding the <strong><em>Faraglioni</em></strong> is the relationship between the depth of the sea immediately surrounding the rocks, the strong currents flowing there, and the way the spray, splashing round the <strong><em>Faraglioni</em></strong> is shot through with light, creating an array of sparkling colors. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Weather veiled in morning mist, surrounded in mystic colors and fine spray, or the splendors of sunset, the <strong><em>Faraglioni</em></strong> remain mysterious and fascinating</span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><strong>Gardens of Augustus<br /></strong><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis3YhdSJE9gKcpYwTbqCTabjGyvQhtVhyjC5JZfgvk27vu0X_a6sN58rMRFDJHm9yKzJ1WHzEpxvZCI5mVLPem_s_N8kAFeefmE5NffSmek-tODu5_ZuH_MwdCJSiWb2EIoVrL19hZfE0b/s1600-h/Gardens+of+Augustus.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 304px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis3YhdSJE9gKcpYwTbqCTabjGyvQhtVhyjC5JZfgvk27vu0X_a6sN58rMRFDJHm9yKzJ1WHzEpxvZCI5mVLPem_s_N8kAFeefmE5NffSmek-tODu5_ZuH_MwdCJSiWb2EIoVrL19hZfE0b/s400/Gardens+of+Augustus.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425103878775187122" border="0" /></a><br /></span><p><span style="font-size:100%;">After the gleaming shop windows and glamour of Capri, the <strong>Gardens of Augustus</strong>, towards the top of the island, are a retreat into a natural paradise, complete with unforgettable panoramas. The garden's tranquility and natural beauty is nothing if not therapy.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">From the vantage point of the Gardens, apart from the splendid views of the sea, are fantastic photographic vistas. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">To one side the undulating roofs and picturesque bell tower of the <strong>St. James' <em>Certosa</em></strong> (Charterhouse), a Carthusian Monastery, lie in the foreground below the Gardens.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Ahead, the Faraglioni rocks rise from the blue of the <strong>Tyrrhenian Sea</strong>.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">To the other side, a narrow road zigzags dramatically in hairpin bends down Capri's cliff reaching the harbor of <strong><em>Marina Piccola</em></strong> below.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">This fantastic feat of engineering is known as <strong>Via Krupp</strong>, named after a German steel magnate, Friedrich Alfred Krupp, who, in the early nineteen hundreds, came to Capri to convalesce after an illness, and later commissioned both the <strong>Gardens of Augustus</strong> and the road that takes his name. <strong>Via Krupp</strong>, however, is not always open because of the possibility of falling rocks.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The gardens themselves are laid out on a series of colorful terraces filled with an abundance of flora found on the island. Each affords a unique and fantastic view from their lofty vantage point. On one of the terraces is a <strong><em>Stele</em></strong> (a commemoration stone) by <strong>Giacomo Manzù</strong> to <strong>Lenin</strong>, who visited the Island and stayed there in 1908.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Capri, in a myriad of ways is a dream destination, becoming more beautiful the higher up the mountain one goes.</span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>Port of Marina Grande</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtZOJE3CpgCbEzPOJldrUq5ZG5qzRzQRgSjf28QO26bkp5pyJHSZ8ETp1ka0eTxLd0pYF0y7wV6WM0x7aKWA-9FgIdZzaAoWOAvXk6GXO90zgRtWoIYYLm2oJC35hKQxlfuM_f3FxXh1E3/s1600-h/marina+grande.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 331px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtZOJE3CpgCbEzPOJldrUq5ZG5qzRzQRgSjf28QO26bkp5pyJHSZ8ETp1ka0eTxLd0pYF0y7wV6WM0x7aKWA-9FgIdZzaAoWOAvXk6GXO90zgRtWoIYYLm2oJC35hKQxlfuM_f3FxXh1E3/s400/marina+grande.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425103407602660706" border="0" /></a></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">The charming seaside <strong>Port of Marina Grande</strong>, encompassed by two narrow arms or quays, borders the picturesque town of <strong>Capri</strong>.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Lying to the North of the island, and facing the <strong>Gulf of Naples</strong>, the port welcomes every kind of wanderer, on every kind of journey. Commercial travelers and tourists arriving from the continent on hydrofoils, arrive west of the port, whilst, sailing boats, luxury yachts and other vessels lie at anchor to the East.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Until 1928, all docking took place directly in the bay, which in those days was smaller, formed of a natural reef. Larger vessels weighed anchor further out to sea, with goods for trade and passengers being rowed ashore in dinghies.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Since its expansion, the scene has become spacious, with a seaside resort and wide beach.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Houses along the port are still structurally typical of the ancient dwellings of <strong>Capri</strong>'s fishermen. The upper level of the house is used as living space, and the lower as a boat house.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">In the past, these homes were built literally at sea level, with the water lapping at their front doors. For years this was a source of amazement and delight to tourists.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">However, since the restructuring of the port, the water level has changed, and their previous position is now only visible in old photographs.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">These houses are one of the few remaining traces of pre-glamour <strong>Capri</strong>.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">They stand as evidence to residents and visitors of the islanders' dependence on the sea, of their ancient lifestyle and their cultural roots.<br /></span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><strong><br />Funicular</strong><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKQjwe5O0ZYSOINXTFQgQEOAttdgl64rSbF0ZAeB2aWrAtwzPjr8tyhIv7HrS7OG-gXKQAQ0jEJd-i7uSkYk_zrkqkSd5tYlDvUlQduy8DimtF9ZH6iMU572SNn_RQBPInB_25-T2ydWfO/s1600-h/funicular.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 279px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKQjwe5O0ZYSOINXTFQgQEOAttdgl64rSbF0ZAeB2aWrAtwzPjr8tyhIv7HrS7OG-gXKQAQ0jEJd-i7uSkYk_zrkqkSd5tYlDvUlQduy8DimtF9ZH6iMU572SNn_RQBPInB_25-T2ydWfO/s400/funicular.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425102408018909922" border="0" /></a></span><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Built in 1907, the <strong>Funicular</strong> is a cableway connecting the port of Marina Grande, to the Piazzetta, at the city centre. The trip, which lasts only a few minutes, affords staggering views of the island. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Departing from the port, the view is crowned by surrounding hills. As the car winds its way up the mountain, pasts houses, vineyards and citrus groves. The view expands into unforgettable panoramas: wide valleys, sheer cliffs, lush flora, blue bays with beaches nestled into the rock, set into a sparkling sea, and the <strong>gulf of Naples</strong>, etched on the horizon.</span></p><p><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Via Vittorio Emanuele III </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Lined with designer labels, exclusive boutiques, and luxury hotels, <strong><em>Via Vittorio Emanuele III</em></strong> is a haven of high class shopping for big spenders. Shopping in style, enjoying the atmosphere or simply hanging around brimming with "class" is what this street was designed for. However, it is not only for shoppers. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong><em>Via Vittorio Emanuele</em></strong> however, surpasses shopping and continues towards the top of Capri. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Leaving the historic and acclaimed <strong>Quisisana</strong> <strong>Hotel</strong> and numerous boutiques behind, the road climbs to the serene <strong>Carthusian Monastery</strong> and the Gardens of Augustus above, tranquil respite from the strains of vanity fair.</span></p><div class="wiki-content wiki-description"> <p><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Torre Saracena</span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJvUWtXlzcEJDDCehlRY5T_r70T4dW1pkTRCg1LfbkN-_UkFKoP_CIAXfaU_khoLPHwxOYnCWzub7u8_z8dweo3yRR4w690mKo98VJ14nmkZ3rylODDbvp4TkZpPXnxoUcwHoN8UOsQu8O/s1600-h/Torre+Saracena.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJvUWtXlzcEJDDCehlRY5T_r70T4dW1pkTRCg1LfbkN-_UkFKoP_CIAXfaU_khoLPHwxOYnCWzub7u8_z8dweo3yRR4w690mKo98VJ14nmkZ3rylODDbvp4TkZpPXnxoUcwHoN8UOsQu8O/s400/Torre+Saracena.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425107098810377810" border="0" /></a></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Torre Saracena, is one of Capri's historic bathing establishments and restaurants which, for more than a century, has been offering visitors to the island an enchanting place where to soak in the sun and enjoy the finest Mediterranean cuisine.<br />The Torre Saracena is located in the picturesque bay of Marina Piccola, with wonderful views across the water to Capri's majestic Faraglioni rocks.<br />Torre Saracena is a family-run establishment headed by Giovanni di 'Pennaulo and his wife Raffaela who, together with Gemma and Giovanni, offer guests their own authentic brand of island hospitality. For over 3 decades, talented chef Domenico Guaraccino has been creating the most exquisite Mediterranean fare, presenting menus featuring mouth watering fish and seafood specialities and a number of wonderful dishes from Capri's historic gastronomic tradition.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Torre Saracena offers a dreamlike setting for quite unforgettable receptions, gala events, and private parties.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The restaurant is open for lunch every day of the week, from April to October. Torre Saracena is also open on Saturday evenings, by reservation only.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><div class="wiki-content wiki-description"> <p><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Lido del Faro</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2zaYHOp6rW3YUZAlbMhSqu7WeCFL0GkT6ayFevNXCrwrWqAG-AL3ybT5rAE2TgVQSTysSp0OJ32TVXKns0kgV6i-tkcUHjUwEOj3iuYJ4kssXnSbMuZO94ZbEoU7FFTKOiHlJzHnuvMrt/s1600-h/Lido+del+Faro.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2zaYHOp6rW3YUZAlbMhSqu7WeCFL0GkT6ayFevNXCrwrWqAG-AL3ybT5rAE2TgVQSTysSp0OJ32TVXKns0kgV6i-tkcUHjUwEOj3iuYJ4kssXnSbMuZO94ZbEoU7FFTKOiHlJzHnuvMrt/s400/Lido+del+Faro.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425109435725873842" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">A mere ten minutes away from Anacapri's historic center, at the end of a strikingly beautiful panoramic road through, lies the bathing establishment and restaurant Lido del Faro. Situated right on the water's edge beneath the majestic lighthouse, the Lido was built into the jagged rocks of the island coastline in 1971 by the D'Esposito family, who took great care so as not to impair the beauty of the site, and to create a facility in perfect harmony with the natural environment. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Seated on the restaurant's fabulous terrace, just a few meters above the level of the sea, guests are treated to breathtaking views and excellent food. The Lido has gained a reputation for its lunch menu featuring outstanding fresh fish and seafood. The restaurant is also open for dinner on Friday and Saturday during the months of June and July and every evening in August. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Not to be missed, the legendary hors-d'oevres with mini pizzas, prawn and rocket salad, marinated salmon and anchovies. First courses to tempt the palate include linguine with mussels and courgette flowers, seafood risotto, squid and potatoes, and delicious Capri-style ravioli. Not surprisingly, the produce of the sea is a major protagonists in main courses with grilled fresh fish, baby squid, local pezzogna fish cooked with tomatoes and herbs and pan-fried local prawns.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">A selection of irresistible desserts including the classic Capri chocolate-almond cake, lemon profiteroles and homemade ice creams awaits the sweet of tooth.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Pizza enthusiasts will be delighted by the specialities made in the traditional wood burning oven. </span></p> </div><h2 class="main-title card-name"><span style="font-size:100%;">La Fontelina</span></h2><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHMb4DX3ODgdYOFwup7Scb4_f_qifZko5cfiMNehoJwsaf-pUfC8Mod9GA9hPpiRJkuTlrtKtsZ7PCVLbHBB1qyNqpU1mL8JqXoNihyphenhyphenFEk6JZYW8WLlV0PjhtkkKdHxbvmymoNICCuMauh/s1600-h/La+Fontelina.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHMb4DX3ODgdYOFwup7Scb4_f_qifZko5cfiMNehoJwsaf-pUfC8Mod9GA9hPpiRJkuTlrtKtsZ7PCVLbHBB1qyNqpU1mL8JqXoNihyphenhyphenFEk6JZYW8WLlV0PjhtkkKdHxbvmymoNICCuMauh/s400/La+Fontelina.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425109152645453218" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></span><!-- /sii --> <!-- sii --> <div class="wiki-content wiki-description"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The Fontelina of Capri bathing establishment and restaurant boasts one of the most spectacular locations in the world; right on the sea's edge at the feet of the gigantic Faraglioni rocks, the island's legendary symbols of the power and beauty of nature. This is also a site of great historical importance, a place once close to the hearts of the emperors of ancient Rome. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">For more than 50 years now, the passion and naturally hospitable nature of the Arcucci and Gargiulo families have ensured that clients of La Fontelina are treated to flawless service and superb regional and international cuisine. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Reservations are strongly recommended.<br />The rocky beach, with its shallow reefs, is not suitable for children.<br />The restaurant is open for lunch from mid-April to October. <br />A shuttle service is available to Marina Piccola each afternoon, sea conditions permitting.</span></p> </div><div class="wiki-content wiki-description"> <p><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >La Canzone del Mare</span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhULWe1UYXUZdVA_fMOsOWfu1evJmMl82BGz60y-R62hMNjzNc2rmZ20CpVVj5Kk06R86mcZMP9WFGcRiqYdQRl0S45Pv2_pZrDg-62KbmEmoMPNcZF9-q7vv-AU02pwsghyDJLFieWX3Eo/s1600-h/La+Canzone+del+Mare.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhULWe1UYXUZdVA_fMOsOWfu1evJmMl82BGz60y-R62hMNjzNc2rmZ20CpVVj5Kk06R86mcZMP9WFGcRiqYdQRl0S45Pv2_pZrDg-62KbmEmoMPNcZF9-q7vv-AU02pwsghyDJLFieWX3Eo/s400/La+Canzone+del+Mare.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425108921648036130" border="0" /></a></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Boasting a glamorous past as one of the <strong>principal locations of Capri's Dolce Vita</strong>, La Canzone del Mare, is still one of the most <strong>fashionable places on the island</strong>. Nestled in the <strong>sunny bay of Marina Piccola</strong>, the bathing establishment enjoys an unbeatable position, gazing out across the sea to the <strong>Faraglioni and the Siren's rock</strong>. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The <strong>sundecks and restaurant</strong> of La Canzone del Mare's are situated on the <strong>terraces surrounding the main swimming pool</strong>. In a quiet and particularly secluded part of the facility, a <strong>second pool has been built in to the rock</strong>, complete with whirlpool. Directly below the terraces, lies La Canzone del Mare's lovely, <strong>white pebble beach</strong>, equipped with sun loungers, deck chairs, and beach umbrellas.<br /><br />Clients spending the day at la Canzone del Mare are offered the use of the <strong>establishments traditional beach huts</strong> or one of the attractive <strong>new cabins: built in stone and designed so as to offer the maximum in comfort and modern technology</strong>. Air conditioning, telephone lines, and internet access, feature in these <em>"mini apartments"</em>, each equipped with comfortable bunks and private bathroom.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">La Canzone del Mare's <strong>restaurant</strong> has received international acclaim for the <strong>excellent Mediterranean cuisine</strong> served to guests dining on its wonderfully romantic sea edge terraces. Menus feature all the local specialities, including a vast array of fish and seafood dishes.</span></p> </div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Da Gioia</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0gwEPi0bighuR48-EQ7FmViWyy0jd784J92lwMetgUWKzGoqV7-DAKZX9Qgzz0FovHTvkGJRAlF9Nnuq5ZMyeHTIPUME1QG7Jjecz5FFpfzrLFbVf6l2B_9SB_Xz8Co09428cfIzKEmxH/s1600-h/da+Gioia.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0gwEPi0bighuR48-EQ7FmViWyy0jd784J92lwMetgUWKzGoqV7-DAKZX9Qgzz0FovHTvkGJRAlF9Nnuq5ZMyeHTIPUME1QG7Jjecz5FFpfzrLFbVf6l2B_9SB_Xz8Co09428cfIzKEmxH/s400/da+Gioia.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425108533771451682" border="0" /></a><br />A delightful little bathing establishment in the Bay of Marina Piccola, da Gioia boasts a fabulous solarium right on the sea's edge and an excellent restaurant where to enjoy lunch. The restaurant, specializing in fish and seafood, is also open on Saturday evenings throughout the month June and every night of the week during the high season months of July and August.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Da Gelsomina Migliera</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr7HDJKOrNW8mXdEsssPh4Rxm-3WGWpnPMJZOpNugEwOGbcstoUIORffV0wgUN-_LTvRQCj57VkH0fJZ5z5valqTTi1VUppjRcFr64T2wb8OJMemiq0SzuLDGNnpyVAEmscFsLKz_1mMs1/s1600-h/da+Gelsomina+Migliera.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr7HDJKOrNW8mXdEsssPh4Rxm-3WGWpnPMJZOpNugEwOGbcstoUIORffV0wgUN-_LTvRQCj57VkH0fJZ5z5valqTTi1VUppjRcFr64T2wb8OJMemiq0SzuLDGNnpyVAEmscFsLKz_1mMs1/s400/da+Gelsomina+Migliera.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425108131715359986" border="0" /></a><br />In one of the most strikingly beautiful areas of the island of Capri, amidst the green countryside and vineyards of Anacapri, one finds Da Gelsomina with its fabulous panoramic swimming pool. Snacks are available from the poolside bar whilst those wishing to have something a little more substantial can dine at the establishment's highly acclaimed restaurant, enjoying excellent food and the magnificent sea views from the light filled dining room and sunny terraces. At Da Gelsomina, guests can enjoy the finest local cuisine accompanied by the restaurant's own wine, produced from the vines which can be seen from the property. Da Gelsomina also has a number of guest bedrooms. A shuttle service is available, all day, to and from Piazza Caprile in the center of Anacapri and Da Gelsomina's restaurant and swimming pool. </span><div class="wiki-content wiki-description"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>Club Nettuno Capri</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxsZxaHPoK0AJr1fWwZJTKLnkAmowHoa4Oz_iCE_-ottWiJwkHr24PBbt7I6v8jjr4e13hQ-iRjm3wBq5YmYfGa29DMXaC6r8ZAmKVOylDV5DT_rnUHbbQkUsm0_G6GbTP-C2iq-WWKElq/s1600-h/Club+Nettuno+Capri.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxsZxaHPoK0AJr1fWwZJTKLnkAmowHoa4Oz_iCE_-ottWiJwkHr24PBbt7I6v8jjr4e13hQ-iRjm3wBq5YmYfGa29DMXaC6r8ZAmKVOylDV5DT_rnUHbbQkUsm0_G6GbTP-C2iq-WWKElq/s400/Club+Nettuno+Capri.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425107770217829122" border="0" /></a></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>Club Nettuno Capri</strong> is one of Capri's historic <strong>bathing establishments</strong>, situated on the northern coast of the island and just meters away from the famous <strong>Grotta Azzurra</strong>.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">In recent years, the Club Nettuno has developed in to full scale <strong>Beach Club</strong>, complete with world class <strong>restaurant</strong>, all day <strong>snack bar</strong>, <strong>adult and children's swimming pools</strong>, fully equipped <strong>sundecks</strong>, <strong>private access to the sea</strong>, mooring buoys, and professional <strong>shuttle service, by bus or boat</strong>.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">With its <strong>exclusive privè</strong>, Club Nettuno is particularly popular with those searching for a little privacy. The establishment's <strong>wellness center</strong> and <strong>fitness area</strong> allow customers to indulge in wellness treatments and keep in shape, all just a stone's throw from the sea. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Serving an enticing selection of beautifully presented <strong>fish and seafood specialties</strong>, Club Nettuno's <strong>Il Tridente restaurant</strong> pays worthy tribute to the flavors and aromas of the <strong>Mediterranean sea</strong>. Customers enjoy their meal <strong>al fresco on the terrace</strong>, from where to admire an unforgettable <strong>view of the sea</strong> surrounding Capri and the <strong>Bay of Naples</strong>. Throughout the day a range of tasty <strong>snacks and refreshing drinks</strong> are available at the bar.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Bathing resort, restaurant and beach club, Nettuno is also an <strong>exclusive events venue</strong>, providing a much sought after sea edge location for glamorous wedding receptions, <strong>gala dinners, banquets</strong>, and even <strong>live music concerts</strong>. Transportation to the Club is available from <strong>Capri, Anacapri, Marina Grande and Marina Piccola</strong> by <strong>shuttle bus</strong> and from the <strong>port of Marina Grande by boat</strong>.</span></p> </div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >The bay of Marina Piccola</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6yaja4afHtX8KXaiEnW3pLhEASXLXEiIIL27V95J-5A2sZFAXI2Ercot4JRdZOhIJalVpHMDy3jmZuRynnkQMhk20j2eMJzHX8QrtbU2rrFTgUoxMUmfm7KuYWsld2jKfha2W6eYFngSH/s1600-h/the+bay+of+marina+picolla.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6yaja4afHtX8KXaiEnW3pLhEASXLXEiIIL27V95J-5A2sZFAXI2Ercot4JRdZOhIJalVpHMDy3jmZuRynnkQMhk20j2eMJzHX8QrtbU2rrFTgUoxMUmfm7KuYWsld2jKfha2W6eYFngSH/s400/the+bay+of+marina+picolla.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425107468622578434" border="0" /></a><br />The bay of Marina Piccola if the most famous of Capri's beaches, blessed by a incredibly beautiful setting with breathtaking views of the Faraglioni rocks. Bagni Internazionali has its own private beach and large sun decks where clients can pass the day away in total relaxation within inches of the sea's edge. Excellent fish and seafood is served at the establishment's highly acclaimed restaurant "Terrazza Ciro a Mare".<br />For those guests seeking absolute privacy, Bagni da Maria, part of the Bagni Internazionali complex, has an enchanting and magnificently secluded little beach.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Transportations </span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" ><br /><br />Chairlift Monte Solaro</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtdbs0qRq2p7fuWMRPjfXTcXaTPTpUpYVVKAmSQlVXLFznXESNuLL4CaQSEjI4JvIUdDpQtPP_vGN83Un2DVrSj84yGGjOM2AOq_WDM6juSp88ibxmFs8jOhLMq9bqxBG2WjDFne7Eg1L/s1600-h/Chairlift+Monte+Solaro.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhtdbs0qRq2p7fuWMRPjfXTcXaTPTpUpYVVKAmSQlVXLFznXESNuLL4CaQSEjI4JvIUdDpQtPP_vGN83Un2DVrSj84yGGjOM2AOq_WDM6juSp88ibxmFs8jOhLMq9bqxBG2WjDFne7Eg1L/s400/Chairlift+Monte+Solaro.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425110962229454866" border="0" /></a><br />A chairlift links Anacapri (286 meters above sea level), with Monte Solaro, the highest part of the island (589 meters above sea level). The journey lasts 12 minutes.<br />From March to October the chairlift is open from 09.30 to sunset; from November to February from 10.15 to 15.00. The chairlift is closed on Tuesdays.<br /></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;">Funicular railway</span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">If you are heading for the center of Capri, the Funicular railway, a train which<br />slides through the lemon groves, links Marina Grande to the heart of Capri in 5 minutes.<br />The train departs roughly every 15 minutes, more frequently at peak times.<br />Small sized, muzzled dogs on leads are permitted aboard.<br />The UnicoCapri ticket can be purchased at the ticket offices in Marina Grande or Piazza Diaz in the center of Capri. In Marina Grande the ticket office is not located at the entrance of the Funicular railway but, rather, on the left hand side of the port, where the ticket offices of the various navigation companies can also be found.</span></p> <h3><span style="font-size:100%;">Bus</span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The Sippic buses serve the routes Capri - Anacapri, Capri – Marina Piccola, Capri- Marina Grande (also known as the St.Costanzo line), Capri-Damecuta, Marina Grande – Anacapri and Marina Piccola – Anacapri (the latter only during the summer season).<br />The Staiano Autotrasporti</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> link Anacapri to the Grotta Azzurra and the Punta Carena Lighthouse (Faro). The journeys for both destinations take roughly 20 minutes.<br />Buses run frequently, although times are subject to variation.<br />Tickets can be purchased directly on board the bus, in the ticket offices of the Funicular railway in Marina Grande or in Piazza Martiri d’Ungheria, close to the Piazzetta, where the bus station is located.<br />An electronic card is available (a deposit of 1 Euro is required at the time of purchase) on which the desired number of journeys can be charged.<br />The UnicoCapri is designed for use on all means of public transport.<br />There are three types of ticket: single journey tickets, hourly tickets and daily tickets.<br />From April to October the number of tourists coming to the island is extremely high and visitors are likely to find long queues at the main bus stations: it is worth knowing then that the bus routes can also be followed by foot. </span></p> <h3><span style="font-size:100%;">Taxi</span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Taxis wait at the port and in the areas of greatest tourist movement. They can be hailed along the road or called by phone.<br />Capri taxi drivers are generally courteous and helpful. They can also be charming entertainers, especially for those who have little time at their disposal and are interested in a whirl wind tour of the island.<br />The cars are often open top vehicles allowing passengers to enjoy to the full the atmosphere of the island: passengers are advised to wear a hat or head scarf and sunglasses.<br />The tariff is established by the taximeter.<br />On the other hand, for a tour of the island of Capri, the price is generally established prior to departure, according factors such as the season, the duration of the tour, the chosen route etc.</span></p> <h3><span style="font-size:100%;">Motorbike</span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Motorbikes can be rented at the port, in Capri, and in Anacapri.<br />Bikes can be hired for a few hours, a whole day or longer. Special deals are often made for longer rentals.</span></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:100%;">By Sea</span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Those looking to visit Capri by sea can rent canoes, pedalos, dinghies, traditional Sorrentine row boats or ‘gozzi’ equipped with sunshade and ice box, or motorboats with, or without, captain.<br />During their excursion, passengers can stop to have lunch at one of the restaurants along the coast, purchase the ingredients for a pic-nic, or ask one of the boatmen to buy the necessary provisions.<br />The latter solution is highly recommended: not only will the goods bought be charged without any additional supplement but, more importantly, passengers will put themselves in the hands of someone who shops in Capri on a daily basis and knows exactly where to buy the sweetest peaches, the tastiest mozzarella cheese and those authentic tomatoes of Capri.<br />Those who prefer to do it themselves should head for Marina Grande and order a well dressed “panino caprese” with mozzarella and tomato. the perfect snack to savor on board, whilst soaking in the sunshine.<br />Another option is to join one of the organized tours around the Island of Capri.<br />The tour of the island usually lasts 45 minutes and includes a visit to the Grotta Azzurra in one of the small rowing boats, although the duration of the trip be longer in high season if passengers have to wait to enter the cave.<br />Those who come to Capri with their own boat can moor at the tourist port. Here they will find all the services they require. In the summer, mooring docks are increased by the use of floating jetties.<br />Those who choose to drop anchor at sea must do so at least 300 meters away from the coastline. </span></p></div>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-40992998761897038082010-01-07T05:31:00.000-08:002010-01-07T10:34:10.431-08:00Fiji Islands "The honey moon paradise"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUCukS6hO5dZmjZHR2PF7Daou-NEFgHtJ8ywm-Uo3e9I3_-qxSvz4TGL_aDwYVgV360dT5JcOgmg8DwNoYYmKbsvBk_M0I8dSnSQZLYL2FxobzqCEVh0vgs11prah8kotq6Ibl0YmXWsC1/s1600-h/Fiji.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 277px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUCukS6hO5dZmjZHR2PF7Daou-NEFgHtJ8ywm-Uo3e9I3_-qxSvz4TGL_aDwYVgV360dT5JcOgmg8DwNoYYmKbsvBk_M0I8dSnSQZLYL2FxobzqCEVh0vgs11prah8kotq6Ibl0YmXWsC1/s400/Fiji.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424064236446520162" border="0" /></a>
<br />"Fiji Me" it’s a way of making your paradise dreams come true. In a world of over 333 islands and almost every conceivable activity to choose from, you can be assured of one thing when you arrive in our pleasant South Pacific destination… that you will experience memorable days and nights that will last a lifetime. <p></p><p class="smallblacktext"><span style="font-size:100%;">Here in Fiji you can say, "Thrill Me" and then choose to hike mountain trails, raft white waters, or speed across and above the ocean surf. You might also request, "Romance Me" and engage in every single type of romantic fantasy come true that your mind can possible dream up. You may hear our waters siren to you and say, "Dive Me" and we can take you down and along some of the most beautiful and colorful soft coral in the world. Fiji may call out for you to "Explore Me" when you can don your back pack and head across a country chock full of adventures and ‘adventurers’. Mingle with locals and you feel the need to say "Bula Me" and experience all the culture, traditions and legends of a once fierce but now fiercely happy and humble people. "Fiji Me"…it’s everything you want it to be.</span></p><p class="smallblacktext"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Suva</span>
<br /></span></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Suva - the Capital of Fiji, was developed in the late 1800's and retains much of the character of the colonial period. Its many attractions include shopping, restaurants, nightclubs, markets, a museum and sightseeing tours. You can enjoy a walk around the central city area, which will uncover numerous surprises. The Roman Catholic Cathedral is a Suva landmark and a leisurely stroll down Victoria Parade (the main avenue) will take you past an array of restaurants, clothing and book stores as well as banks and airline offices.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/discovertheisland_suva_pic2.jpg" name="graphics1" alt="Suva Nightlife" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /> Here you'll see the blending of traditional, early 20th century South Pacific buildings juxtaposed with modern high-rise structures. Towards the end of the Parade are the Government Buildings, which open on to Albert Park and Thurston Gardens. A short bus or cab ride south toward Suva Point will take you to the architecturally striking Parliament Buildings. Suva has accommodation to suit business traveller's families and backpackers. <img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/discovertheisland_suva_pic3.jpg" name="graphics2" alt="Suva Parliment House" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /></span> </p> <p></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lomaiviti</span>
<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">The Lomaiviti group of islands, the heart of Fiji lies off the east coast of Viti Levu and consists of seven main islands and a number of smaller ones, which cover an area of 411 square kilometers with a combined population of 16,214. These islands are rustic and serene where travelers have ended up staying longer than planned. The Lomaiviti Group, 'Fiji's Big Fish Capital', consist of the islands of Namenalala, Makogai, Koro, Wakaya, Batiki, Nairai, Gau, Ovalau and Moturiki.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/lomaiviti_pic1.jpg" name="graphics1" alt="Lomaiviti pic 1" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /></span> </p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Levuka</span>
<br />Levuka is the large, 626m high volcanic island just east of Viti Levu. It is Fiji's former capital, located on the island of Ovalau with a population of 3745. Levuka is the most picturesque town in Fiji, and one of very few places in the South Pacific that still has a significant number of quaint colonial buildings.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Levuka is famous for many of Fiji's 'firsts'. It was the site of Fiji's first bank, post office, school, private members club, hospital, town hall and municipal government. For travelers who want to experience and be part of a living heritage, Levuka is a trip back in time, to a Fiji that is still untouched by mass tourism.</span></p> <p></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kadavu</span>
<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Kadavu is Fiji's fourth largest island, with a population of 10,000 and an area of 411 square kilometres, located approximately 45 miles south of the capital city of Suva. Widely acknowledgeed as one of Fiji's most unspoilt islands, its lush rainforest and exotic wildlife have earned Kadavu a reputation as one of Fiji's most beautiful islands. Kadavu still has 75% of its original rainforest cover and a rich bird diversity, including four species endemic to the island. Kadavu is one of the least develped areas of Fiji with few roads, and a local economy largely dependent on subsistence farming.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/thingstodoandsee_kadavu_pic1.jpg" name="graphics1" alt="kadavu Pic 1" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">This island enjoys some of the world's best diving with the Great Astrolable Reed stretching its mightly coral formations along the entre eatern side. Beneath the surface, the island's pristine waters offer excellent visibility, the gardens of hard and soft corals, vertical walls, caves and brilliant tropical fish of every species.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">On land, the lush rainforest, mountain ranges, bush trails and waterfalls are a delight for hikers, and local guides can show you the rare birdlife unique to the island, including the Kadavu parrot.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/thingstodoandsee_kadavu_pic2.jpg" name="graphics2" alt="kadavu Pic 2" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">There are daily flights to Kadavu, one from Nadi as well as seaplanes and a ferry service from Suva. Kadavu resorts offer a variety of quality accommodation from backpacker and family budget resorts to eco resorts an more lavishly appointed resorts, all supremely suitable for enthusiastic divers.</span></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"></p><p style="font-weight: normal;"></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Taveuni </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Taveuni is Fiji’s third largest island with 42km long and 10km wide situated 9km from southeast of Vanua Levu. It is known as the “Garden Island of Fiji” for its dense and verdant rainforest and exotic flora and fauna. The island’s main source of income is agriculture, mostly dalo (taro) and to a lesser extent copra and kava crops, but it is increasingly relying on tourism.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Ecotourism and diving are the main attractions of tourists to Taveuni. The island’s natural beauty both under and above water, is popular with divers, bushwalkers and nature lovers. Its rugged geography has hindered farming, leaving forests and wildlife relatively intact. The people of Taveuni are committed in conserving the natural and cultural heritage of the island.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/discovertheisland_taveuni_pic1.jpg" name="graphics1" alt="Taveuni bay " width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The unique natural and cultural heritage is a major draw card for tourism in Taveuni. Taveuni is a destination for tourists looking for nature-based experiences beyond sun, sand and sea of the other islands.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Bouma Forest Park is community managed that is aiming to be on the World Heritage List. It offers Waitabu Marine Area for snorkellers, mountain and coastal walking treks, waterfalls and so on. Additionally, Taveuni has magnificent diving spots, beautiful white sandy beaches and panoramic views around the island.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Waters off Qamea and adjacent islands feature world famous dive spots such as the White Wall, the Purple Wall and the Yellow Wall. There are several villages on Qamea and the abundance of tropical marine life makes the waters around Taveuni a fisherman’s heaven.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">There are a few sites of archeological interest on Taveuni, including the remains of the old Vuna village hill fortification in the south near Vuna Point. According to local lore, the Paramount Chief – Tui Vuna, who was originally from Moturiki near Ovalau, presided there.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/discovertheisland_taveuni_pic2.jpg" name="graphics2" alt="taveuni waterfall" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /></span> </p> <p></p><p><meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 2.4 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { size: 8.27in 11.69in; margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --></style></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">
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<br /></span> </p> <p></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Vanua Levu</span></p><p><meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 2.4 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { size: 8.27in 11.69in; margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --> </style> </p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Vanua Levu is the second largest island of the Fiji archipelago and has the second largest population. With an area of 5,587sq km, it is just over half the size of Viti Levu and 18% of the country’s total population.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Savusavu</span>
<br />Savusavu is one of the fastest growing towns as well as a unique and distinctive tourism destination in Fiji. It is small and quaint with a heritage yet bustling small town quality. Savusavu Town is nestled on a peninsula, which divides Savusavu Bay from the Koro Sea and is the main tourist destination for Vanua Levu. Savusavu’s slogan is “the Hidden Paradise”. The landscape here is scenic with many bays, rainforests and coconut groves.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Savusavu was once a caldera and the area still has lots of geothermal activity, with hot springs near wharf and vents of steam along the water’s edge. These hot springs have put Savusavu on the world’s tourist map.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/vanualevu_pic1.jpg" name="graphics1" alt="Vanua Levu image 1" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /> The main attraction for most travelers to Savusavu is its reefs. There are good dive sites at the entrance and within Savusavu Bay, and along the coast towards Taveuni. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The Hibiscus Highway is scenic, running from Savusavu town to the road’s end at Darigala, passing sprawling copra estates, colonial-style homesteads, villages and forests. Towards the end of the Hibiscus Highway is the Tunuloa or Natewa Peninsula.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">This area is renowned for bird-watching, hiking or for exploration by bus for 4WD. The silktail, a rare bird listed as one of the world’s endangered species is found only on this peninsula and on Taveuni.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/vanualevu_pic2.jpg" name="graphics2" alt="Savusavu Buca Bay" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /></span> </p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">South of Buca Bay, at the south-eastern end of Vanua Levu, Dakuniba Village where petrogliphs on boulders can be found in a creek bed nearby. Similar alphabetic rock inscriptions are also found in the Sawa-i-lau Caves in the Yasawas. Nukubolu Forest and Archaeological Park and Waisali Forest Park are tourist attractions managed by the community.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">
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<br /></span> </p> <p></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Sun Coast</span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">This area includes the north eastern coastal areas of Viti Levu starting from Lautoka through to Ba, Rakiraki, Nananu-i-ra and Takalana. The region commences from Vatia Point in the midst of Ba and Tavua through to Takalana in the Northern Tailevu Province. This area covers three major provinces. The region includes 30 districts and 160 villages.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The rugged north coast is known as the Suncoast for its relatively dry climate. The scenery is stunning along Kings Road winding down from the mountains from Dama past Viti Levu Bay and to the beautiful Rakiraki. The climate on the Northern side of the Nakauvadra range is similar to that of western Viti Levu, drier and suited for growing sugar cane. Some 30 minutes to the north of Nadi International Airport is Lautoka, the second largest city in Fiji. This mountainous region around Rakiraki is home to the world renowned 'Fiji Water'. Visits to the Fiji Water Plan can be arranged beforehand.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/discovertheisland_suncoast_pic1.jpg" name="graphics1" alt="Suncoast image" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /></span> </p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The Suncoast region boasts magnificent mountain ranges, rolling countryside, tropical forests, rivers and waterfalls; coral reef gardens, Skeleton-filled caves, white sandy beaches, and picturesque islands of Macuata, Tovu, Nanuyakoto, Malake, Dolphin, Nananu-i-ra and Nananu-I-Cake. This region is particularly rich in culture and tradition, the arts of storytelling and traditional dancing.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">
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<br /></span> </p> <p></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Coral Coast </span></p><p><meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 2.4 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { size: 8.27in 11.69in; margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --> </style> </p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">The Coral Coast stretches along the beaches of Fiji's main island linking Natadola in the West to Waidroka Bay in the East. It has one of the largest fringing coral reefs in the world. Dotted with stunning white beaches and ringed by a turquoise coral reef and a deep blue Pacific Ocean the Queens Highway meanders through stunning scenery, Fijian villages, sugar cane fields and lush hills. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">This is where you will find a host of award winning resorts, hotels, villas, and backpacker accommodation. In fact the best of every accommodation option can be found on the Coral Coast catering to every pocket and every vacation dream. Weddings, honeymoons, relaxing getaways, family holidays, adventure - the Coral Coast has it all.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/discovertheisland_mamanucas_pic3.jpg" name="graphics1" alt="Coral Coast 1" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">On the banks of the Sigatoka river is Sigatoka town (sunny place), a place where locals and tourists blend to eat, shop and socalize. In the central marketplace, farmers barter and trade their fruit, vegetables and kava and shelter under colourful umbrellas maramas (women) display fresh water mussels in hand-woven coconut leaf baskets. Sigatoka town is also home to many of Fiji's most famous shops offering a high quality range of handicrafts, home wares, souvenirs, fashion and jewellery.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Relax and participate in resort based activities, indulge in a luxury spa or enjoy village visits, diving, snorkelling, surfing, jungle treks, river rafting and more.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/discovertheisland_coralcoast_pic6.jpg" name="graphics2" alt="Coral Coast Reef" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /></span> </p> <p></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Yasawa Islands</span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">The Yasawa Islands are a chain of sixteen large islands, stretching ninety (90) kilometers in north-northeast direction, roughly thirty-five (35) kilometers off the west coast of Viti Levu. In the lee of Viti Levu, the Yasawas are dry and sunny, with beautiful, isolated beaches, cliffs, bays and reefs.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The Yasawas are famous for crystal blue lagoons and some of the Pacific's most ethereal beaches. The islands have white sandy beaches and crystalline waters, lush tropical rainforests and soaring volcano peaks that attract fresh tropical rain. The Yasawas are accessed daily from Port Denarau and Lautoka by fast catamaran and resort water taxis; or seaplane and helicopter from Nadi.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/discovertheisland_yasawa_pic1.jpg" name="graphics1" alt="Yasawa beach Aerial" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /></span> </p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Clear blue waters with white sandy beaches and extensive fringing reefs and reef lagoons. The rugged islands provide a backdrop to this spectacular imagery. The rain shadow effect of Viti Levu from the prevailing moist south easterlies provides low rainfall and many sunny days.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Entertainment includes resort activities, village visits (for meke and lovos), sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, diving, trekking and visits to Sawa-i-lau caves.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The Yasawa Islands offer a great range of backpacking properties with their own unique attractions, cultural activities, picture perfect beaches, authentic Fijian food, amazing birdlife and world class scuba diving. There is also a wonderful selection of accommodation ranging from budget to unique five star resorts. The peace and tranquility, combined with the generosity and warmth of the local people make the Yasawas a very special and authentic travel experience and introduction to the real Fiji.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/discovertheisland_yasawa_pic2.jpg" name="graphics2" alt="Yasawa island Aerial" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /></span> </p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Cruise Ships and Yachting
<br />The Yasawas also have regular small luxury cruise ship visits (Blue Lagoon and Captain Cook).</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span> </p> <p></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Mamanuca </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Set among deep blue waters with fringing coral reefs of turquoise and pastel green, the Mamanuca (pronounced Ma-ma noo tha) island group is a paradise of eye-popping reefs and sand-fringed isles shared by traditional Fijian villages and modern island resorts. The arc shaped Mamanuca chain is situated well inside the outer reef whose protective barrier creates ideal conditions for boating, scuba diving, snorkelling and other water-based activities.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/discovertheisland_mamanucas_pic1.jpg" name="graphics1" alt="Mamanuca Island" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /> The Mamanuca Islands and the islands of Nadi Bay offer tourists some of Fiji's most outstanding island beauty and are home to a range of resorts that are as different as they are unique. Top it off; the Mamanucas also lie in a weather belt boasting the South Pacific's highest "sunshine factor". </span></p> <p></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Denarau Island</span></p><p style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Denarau Island is a Fiji tourism institution. With more than 8 major hotel options including world recognisable names such as Sheraton, Sofitel, Radisson, Hilton, and Westin among others, Denarau offers a standard of service that can be trusted for savvy international travelers. There are other major amenities that make Denarau Island the leader for room counts in Fiji's. If golf is your game, you'll certainly enjoy the championship caliber course at the Golf and Racquet facility which also houses impressive tennis options including spectacular grass courts.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/discovertheisland_denaraupic1.jpg" name="graphics1" alt="Denarau Golf" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /><span style="font-weight: normal;">
<br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Denarau Golf Club is one of Fiji’s more expensive; however, the course is superb. It offers long, flat, and open fairways with several water hazards and beautiful coconut trees. The scenic view may get in your way and make you drive in the wrong direction as your eyes may divert to the blue waters of the sea or the majestic mountains. The course is a par 72 with championship fees. It encompasses 4 par threes, 4 par fives, and 10 par fours. The longest hole is the 14th hole at 516 meters and the shortest par 3 is the 17th hole at 158 meters known as the signature hole. The South Pacific's premier championship course is in the heart of the resort island of Denarau, home of Sheraton Fiji Resorts. Landscaped with giant coconut palms it features water hazards on 15 of the 18 holes making it a 'thinking' golf course. </span><img style="font-weight: normal;" src="http://www.fijime.com/images/discovertheisland_nadi_pic2.jpg" name="graphics2" alt="Hard Rock Cafe Denarau" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" /></span> </p> <p style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The Marina at Denarau port provides Fiji's finest off-resort dining and shopping experience. The eclectic dining options include steak, seafood, Indian and even a Hard Rock Cafe. There are plenty of other food choices to consider while working up a hunger walking around the premium shops and handicraft retailers.
<br />The Port Denarau Marina is the main departure point for the Mamanuca and Yasawa islands and is located on Denarau Island. This fast developing marina complex is the centre of yachting activity in Fiji. Denarau Marina has Fiji's newest haul out facility and provides the latest up to date equipment. It has 5 jetties: 1 fixed and 4 floating. The marina can accommodate super yachts up to a maximum of 64 metres and 100 smaller yachts. Up to 11 cruise boats can be accommodated. Ancillary facilities include tour desks, a convenience store, laundry, fuel depot and public washrooms.</span></p> <p style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/discovertheisland_denerau_pic4.jpg" name="graphics3" alt="Denarau Marina" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="300" />
<br /></span> </p><p style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Denarau Island is also the lunching pad to many of Fiji's island resort and activity options. A very close proximity to Nadi airport only adds to the value of Denarau's long list of special features. When looking for established and renowned service providers, Denarau will surely be one of your most highly considered options. </span></p> <p></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Nadi </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">As Fiji's airport town, Nadi (pronounced Nandi) is where most visitors hear their first BULA. The colorful marketplace, located only a few minutes drive from the airport, features yaqona stalls, homemade souvenirs and local culture. Nadi is also the gateway to the Mamanuca Group where you will find exquisite island resorts as well as laid back surfer camps and budget accommodation. Nadi is where you'll find the most visitor facilities in Fiji and, of course, the greatest number of souvenir shops and it's also known for an ancient therapy mud bath at the Sabeto's Outback.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><img src="http://www.fijime.com/images/nadi_pic1.jpg" name="graphics1" alt="Nadi Pic 1" width="415" align="bottom" border="0" height="146" />Traditionally the gateway to Fiji, the Nadi Corridor comprises the western side of Fiji's main island, Viti Levu commencing from Vuda Point, Nadi Town, Wailoaloa Beach, Nadi Airport, Martintar, Denarau Island, Korovuto, Momi Bay to Natadola. Effectively this region falls under the two provinces of Ba and Nadroga characterized by year round fine weather, its proximity to the International Airport, whilst the surrounding countryside is rolling and verdant, the beaches are relatively unpopulated, and the mountainous region (known as the Nausori Highlands) to the east are nothing short of spectacular. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;">
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<br /><strong>TIVUA ISLAND DAY CRUISE</strong></span><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkVsva5nSN3M_Y5cM3gu70nt1-u758flhb1iKz782XGlXHTIpWL5R0ZZqoiErmHeVxlOxHtkrUnk98TpiPAbcdpes5H6sN1b3T8Tk6B0xs7NS0y62u0Y3Dl961z8l-MLuoGQF-Z8eVWgXh/s1600-h/TIVUA+ISLAND+DAY+CRUISE.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkVsva5nSN3M_Y5cM3gu70nt1-u758flhb1iKz782XGlXHTIpWL5R0ZZqoiErmHeVxlOxHtkrUnk98TpiPAbcdpes5H6sN1b3T8Tk6B0xs7NS0y62u0Y3Dl961z8l-MLuoGQF-Z8eVWgXh/s400/TIVUA+ISLAND+DAY+CRUISE.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423991103592409170" border="0" /></a></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Set sail on the 110-foot former Governor General’s Brigantine “Ra Marama” for an all-day island and cruise adventure. Relax, sunbathe and enjoy the music and entertainment as you cruise to Tivua Island. Surrounded by 500 acres of coral gardens, warm tropical waters and soft sandy beach, Tivua Island is a private oasis. Glass bottom boat tours, island activities and buffet lunch are all included.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>UPPER NAVUA RIVER RAFTING</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSyjWyw1h-JPdUdT7JaSpVtzs-78kBXrN4t6dlM3umlMf7l-8B1Gmt7gIYe6nLukCJ4IyuQRbRDbBc0doH7e3QbFHBEvvZcZO3LM1O-ZSvyHwrAqrHmmeOjwBy39dZCsFZF0SUWk-LLl4f/s1600-h/UPPER+NAVUA+RIVER+RAFTING.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSyjWyw1h-JPdUdT7JaSpVtzs-78kBXrN4t6dlM3umlMf7l-8B1Gmt7gIYe6nLukCJ4IyuQRbRDbBc0doH7e3QbFHBEvvZcZO3LM1O-ZSvyHwrAqrHmmeOjwBy39dZCsFZF0SUWk-LLl4f/s400/UPPER+NAVUA+RIVER+RAFTING.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423992392579973330" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Enjoy a full-day adventure including whitewater rafting on one of the most unique rivers on earth. The Upper Navua River is a hidden pathway into a pristine tropical wilderness and has remained unexplored by all but the most intrepid adventurers. Discover highland culture and hidden grottoes, hike in emerald forests, search for exotic wildlife, and be invigorated under cascading waterfalls. Tour is approximately 11 hours.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>LOBSTER DINNER CRUISE</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpTw5CowHfMguGTuyC2HlZ5_XyTJRzERpCi6EKqrH6Lc2zhFJkkjtWc6drGPshm9g0smDO_1SgjitjDLmyUuMgqGU2QHJbg9SqgLQfkmwIHFAuNaC4EI0YqsFK-ovpduF1xFeqHSPXjtnp/s1600-h/LOBSTER+DINNER+CRUISE.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpTw5CowHfMguGTuyC2HlZ5_XyTJRzERpCi6EKqrH6Lc2zhFJkkjtWc6drGPshm9g0smDO_1SgjitjDLmyUuMgqGU2QHJbg9SqgLQfkmwIHFAuNaC4EI0YqsFK-ovpduF1xFeqHSPXjtnp/s400/LOBSTER+DINNER+CRUISE.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423993015700887346" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">This evening, enjoy a delicious lobster dinner and a champagne cocktail as you cruise into a beautiful Pacific Island sunset. Onboard you will experience lively traditional Fijian entertainment, superb dining, and spectacular scenery– a combination that will make your evening afloat an event to remember. A bar is also available with drinks for purchase.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>DINNER CRUISE</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQ1TjUfJpCUr8VebxA7Wx4zv_tBuzlSXaTiZisEXvxl4ry-CAZxtED18AahU6r0yrPJPRsQ9-McJTQG3baJa839P9jqiyr3Q81YMe9-627dKJRMdPL7XNYXMBasDrkrFhrmLBMJ3OdAY0/s1600-h/YASAWA+ISLAND+EXPLORER.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQ1TjUfJpCUr8VebxA7Wx4zv_tBuzlSXaTiZisEXvxl4ry-CAZxtED18AahU6r0yrPJPRsQ9-McJTQG3baJa839P9jqiyr3Q81YMe9-627dKJRMdPL7XNYXMBasDrkrFhrmLBMJ3OdAY0/s400/YASAWA+ISLAND+EXPLORER.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423993254743100306" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Enjoy 3 hours of cruising into a Pacific Island sunset while you dine from a delicious 3-course a-la-carte menu prepared on board. Coffee and tea (included) and bar service (own expense) are also available. Traditional Fijian entertainment and spectacular scenery round off a perfect evening. Cruise itinerary is subject to change without notice due to weather or operational needs. Hotel transfers are included.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>YASAWA ISLAND EXPLORER</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLmy5RJJ-wiEysV8HnbShjLmoxOFHrkLujmlsKCjZB_7TuCPxLCUgG_Izb7VT3ZynLJcRndvjgyIH0yDuTjre440yQQ05qwqpC2i44T-aNI7srrmjEvYrr55OMAZnEEXCC3gf6TuoZZoo1/s1600-h/YASAWA+ISLAND+EXPLORER.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLmy5RJJ-wiEysV8HnbShjLmoxOFHrkLujmlsKCjZB_7TuCPxLCUgG_Izb7VT3ZynLJcRndvjgyIH0yDuTjre440yQQ05qwqpC2i44T-aNI7srrmjEvYrr55OMAZnEEXCC3gf6TuoZZoo1/s400/YASAWA+ISLAND+EXPLORER.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423994470687907122" border="0" /></a></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Explore the remote Yasawa group of islands on board the “Yasawa Flyer.” Cruise past beautiful beaches and isolated villages on this big day out. This fast catamaran provides a vital link to the remote Yasawa Islands for both locals and visitors. Commentary and a tasty packed lunch are included. Tour is 9 hours, departs daily from Denarau.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>ORCHIDS & CHIEFLY VILLAGE TOUR</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGqY99PL9ytFEe52Q9Rx8aESHtqFTxL4cZBtxbgpzM0TSgnoufmk-megKElxk3YLYxRCrBeUBxN1Al4vR3YdODY650HiIyv8yTDlTD2DsYn-64_hEPRMZ8NfN8ImirveKAKTdxWftDDXrl/s1600-h/ORCHIDS+%26+CHIEFLY+VILLAGE+TOUR.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGqY99PL9ytFEe52Q9Rx8aESHtqFTxL4cZBtxbgpzM0TSgnoufmk-megKElxk3YLYxRCrBeUBxN1Al4vR3YdODY650HiIyv8yTDlTD2DsYn-64_hEPRMZ8NfN8ImirveKAKTdxWftDDXrl/s400/ORCHIDS+%26+CHIEFLY+VILLAGE+TOUR.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424052310430819634" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">This guided afternoon tour visits the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, housing the late Raymond Burr’s collection of Orchids. The garden offers a unique way to experience Fiji’s tropical beauty. The historical village of Viseisei reveals that this was the Fijian people’s first landing site. On the way back to your hotel, stop at Nadi market and town. Tour is 4 1/2 hours. Departs: Monday- Saturday except holidays.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>ABACA VILLAGE TOUR</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Travel via 4WD through Lautoka and ascend the hills of “The Sleeping Giant” to the alpine village of Abaca, inside the Koroyanitu National Park. The village offers forest and grassland walks with magnificent views of the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. After a welcome ceremony, take a guided walk in the National Park with an opportunity for a swim in the river. Or, take a guided village tour, learning of traditional plants and their medicinal use.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>BULA FIJI DAY TOUR</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlIkJ4vsuLIB3xusW6vi5tFTRBdXmgy9h8tvacoi0lNI2y2prNodOyRGqsSoDJiyOpwwiv3H3OwzcN0mJnsObvxs1qz-BBVMDuECTNM9s4DjPm-tGIxhzNWr8gu5BmwwHdf8wFj0kXFIUD/s1600-h/BULA+FIJI.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 148px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlIkJ4vsuLIB3xusW6vi5tFTRBdXmgy9h8tvacoi0lNI2y2prNodOyRGqsSoDJiyOpwwiv3H3OwzcN0mJnsObvxs1qz-BBVMDuECTNM9s4DjPm-tGIxhzNWr8gu5BmwwHdf8wFj0kXFIUD/s400/BULA+FIJI.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424055307293704338" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">This full day guided tour includes Fiji’s capital city Suva, nestled on the harbor with views to the surrounding mountains. Enjoy sightseeing, shopping and a buffet lunch. Encounter the cultural heritage of the islands at the Fiji Museum, including relics from HMS Bounty. Drive through the city, past Parliament House, University of the South Pacific, and the President’s residence. Tour is 10 hours and departs Monday-Friday except holidays.</span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>NAMUAMUA INLAND TOUR
<br /></strong><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPA4Q_cBzXkZo1lS-jHFXMjzPWClk-f47Fi2CMkfCQhGc4yTreRQ8sgj8bB-GEAuUx6ebBYfFbFyjgJ7LwrJxZ30FKGWtFW3hmR_5k-fM4jrlzoCQqGs3-GX_jRRuSSp-_1Lxjd_lsO0k/s1600-h/Navua+River.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPA4Q_cBzXkZo1lS-jHFXMjzPWClk-f47Fi2CMkfCQhGc4yTreRQ8sgj8bB-GEAuUx6ebBYfFbFyjgJ7LwrJxZ30FKGWtFW3hmR_5k-fM4jrlzoCQqGs3-GX_jRRuSSp-_1Lxjd_lsO0k/s400/Navua+River.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424055921438070994" border="0" /></a>
<br />After a scenic drive, your adventure begins on board a long boat traveling up the Navua River into the interior, past villages, pristine tropical rainforests, deep gorges, fast-flowing shallow rapids and cascading waterfalls. Try bamboo rafting and enjoy an exhilarating swim under a waterfall before lunch (included) at a Fijian village with a traditional kava ceremony and entertainment. This full day tour departs Nadi with pickups at resorts along the way.
<br />
<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Transportations</span>
<br />
<br /></span><h2><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="mw-headline">Get in</span></span></h2> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_plane"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">By plane</span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Nadi International Airpor</span>t is Fiji's main international airport. Suva airport also has some international flights. Air New Zealand, and Air Pacific (Fiji majority owned) fly to Fiji directly from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in the USA, and from Incheon International Airport in South Korea, as well as many other locations. Korean Air has three flights weekly between Nadi and Seoul<span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Seoul" title="Seoul"></a>. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Exercise caution when making bookings with the travel agents at the airport. Fiji tourism is laden with 15-20% 'deposits' (commissions) that encourage agents to book with the resorts that provide the best commission, rather than the best holiday experience. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="By_boat"></a></span><h3>
<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">By boat</span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">You can enter Fiji by boat from </span>Australia<span style="font-size:100%;"> through the Astrala shore connection. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="Get_around"></a></span><h2><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">Get around</span></span></h2> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Fiji has a variety of public transport options, including buses, "share taxis", and private taxis. Rates are very cheap: F$1-2 from Colo-i-Suva to Suva bus station by bus, F$17 from Nadi bus station to Suva by share-taxi (share-taxi's are usually white mini-vans that congregate together and set-off when they reach their capacity of 6-8), or approximately F$80 from Suva airport to Sigatoka by private taxi. On the main road circling Viti Levu buses run every half hour and taxis are a substantial proportion of traffic, while on western Taveuni buses make only a few runs per day and very little traffic is present. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">The current going rate from resorts on Nadi beach to Nadi downtown is $6 per passenger, and $10 to the airport -- you should be able negotiate this price reasonably easily. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">While there is rarely much traffic present, most vehicles run on diesel and pollution on major roadways can be severe. A national speed limit of 80 km/h is usually observed; village speed limits are all but entirely ignored, but drivers slow down for several speed humps distributed within each village. Seat belts are advised on taxis but are rarely evident and apparently never used. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Road travel tends to be more dangerous than many people are used to, and many embassies advise their citizens to avoid pretty much any form of road travel. Pot holes, washouts and dilapidated bridges are commonplace. Buses are the best, unless you are truly comfortable and capable of renting and driving a car on your own - most people are not even if they think they are. Avoid travel at night, especially outside of urban areas. Another option is hop-on, hop-off bus passes which allow you to tour Fiji at your own pace for a fixed price. These are a more expensive way to travel but feature inclusions like tours and activities. However, some like Feejee Experience are limited to Viti Levu and trips to Beachcomber island and don't include the more remote islands. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="Inter-island"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">Inter-island</span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">South Sea Cruises operates daily inter-island ferry transfers throughout Fiji's Mamanuca Island resorts. Awesome Adventures Fiji provides daily ferry transfers out to the remote Yasawa Islands. Inter-island ferries are reasonably priced and the larger ones (especially those large enough to accommodate cars and trucks) have a good safety record, though they may be overcrowded at the beginning and end of school holiday periods. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">Do not attempt to take a car to another island unless you own it or have made clear special arrangements - most rental companies forbid it and they do prosecute tourists who violate this clause in the contract. </span></p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><a name="Bicycle"></a></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">Bicycle</span></span></h3> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Bicycles are becoming more popular in Fiji in recent years for locals and tourists alike. In many ways, Fiji is an ideal place for a rugged bike tour. However, the motor vehicle traffic can be intimidating on well-travelled roads, and there is a lack of accommodation along secondary roads. Cycling is a great way to see Fiji but make sure you carry all your own spares and supplies as bike shops are scarce. It is a good idea to carry plenty of water, a camelbak is great, as it is very hot and humid almost year round. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;">The main Road around the largest island, Viti Levu, is sealed except for a 40km section on the eastern side. A sturdy road, touring or hybrid bike is suitable. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><i>Note for cycling enthusiasts: If you are coming in Suva, contact Dom Sansom velocityfijiATgmailDOTcom of the Velocity Cycling Club to link up other cyclists. There are some very nice cycling routes up the mountains behind Suva and Nadi. The sealed roads are smooth and do not have much traffic. The route takes you past waterfalls and you can arrange to drop in at Netani Kuila's farm, at Batiki for a local breakfast.</i></span> </p><span style="font-size:100%;">
<br /></span>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-30944828126644889112010-01-06T02:57:00.000-08:002010-01-06T04:59:20.841-08:00Toruń "Gothic pearl" Most Interesting Polish Tourist Hits<font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifl5E764P3z0D2YI3V63xzNjPKHStGyiXzmVnos1dWV6SmTjUXCjT16x0tJM0KkeHfNo78YeeLyIrGWRZ8VnD2Sw0GUlzmtZnDqvkeEnY1yGkDWu_00xK_hcbo10XSLGA3MeEiGBJls_BY/s1600-h/torun.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifl5E764P3z0D2YI3V63xzNjPKHStGyiXzmVnos1dWV6SmTjUXCjT16x0tJM0KkeHfNo78YeeLyIrGWRZ8VnD2Sw0GUlzmtZnDqvkeEnY1yGkDWu_00xK_hcbo10XSLGA3MeEiGBJls_BY/s400/torun.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423609506111591346" border="0"></a><br /><br /><br />Toruń is one of the few cities in Poland which did not suffer considerable war damage during World War II. It boasts not only excellent surviving architecture but also the spirit of bygone medieval times, which often makes it one of the most favourite tourist destinations. It is, for this reason, also included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.<br />The list of Toruń tourist hits – its biggest attractions presented below – provides a brief description of the ‘Gothic pearl’ and may serve as a starting point for getting to know the city.<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Vistulian Panorama</font><font size="3"><br /></font><font size="3"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY-VQKCRQ7xq0FMvivaPedP4939lnJHaSjEBNpJEg0CDgM0xvRSuRrx_4NGEhyuooN8bGUHkcJSk96O_AWXrrw1c_SCMh0iJZ8IX4pirsOYzN7x2nKWbIfisIjkhMIv7ZhAKB7bmvUjuuv/s1600-h/torun+panorama.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY-VQKCRQ7xq0FMvivaPedP4939lnJHaSjEBNpJEg0CDgM0xvRSuRrx_4NGEhyuooN8bGUHkcJSk96O_AWXrrw1c_SCMh0iJZ8IX4pirsOYzN7x2nKWbIfisIjkhMIv7ZhAKB7bmvUjuuv/s400/torun+panorama.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423609804282949602" border="0"></a></font><br /><font size="3">The view of the Old Quarter as seen from the south bank of the river (Kępa Bazarowa islet, a forest reservation unique for its central location in the city) is among the most beautiful city panoramas. It has always inspired painters, poets and raftsmen floating their rafts down the Vistula. It is, at the same time, the most popular view of Toruń, stunningly illuminated at night.<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Toruń Gingerbread</font><font size="3"><br />Toruń gingerbread has long been the most famous gingerbread in the world. The plain or sophisticatedly shaped cakes, the former known as "Catherines", are the tradition, heritage and symbol of Toruń, as well as an indispensable souvenir of the city. Their peculiarity lies not only in their taste, but also in their figural forms. The beautiful richly ornamental wooden baking tray moulds are masterpieces of the high-level woodcarving art themselves, which is well-illustrated by the surviving examples in the City Hall museum or on the permanent exhibition "The world of Toruń gingerbread".<br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3"><br />Nicolaus Copernicus Tradition</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7GbW5c3E7gQFBbRyoj9SIUZBNHZLC48wVKfLCUXUycJ8D8B8Je_3Hl1Pwb5cKWsKmHga0CAzmQYzvkjb0g3xz_xRE7sUUeZgXsF3usnEppvKVv0tW0UhMRPRkZr3olJeY5h08qgEbyvp/s1600-h/Nicolaus+Copernicus.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 302px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7GbW5c3E7gQFBbRyoj9SIUZBNHZLC48wVKfLCUXUycJ8D8B8Je_3Hl1Pwb5cKWsKmHga0CAzmQYzvkjb0g3xz_xRE7sUUeZgXsF3usnEppvKVv0tW0UhMRPRkZr3olJeY5h08qgEbyvp/s400/Nicolaus+Copernicus.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423587400925735362" border="0"></a><br />The tradition relating to the greatest and most famous astronomer of all time… born in Toruń, who is said to have “held the Sun and moved the Earth”, is still alive in his hometown. His spirit seems to pervade the field of science he developed, motivating other eminent scientists in the history of Toruń to follow his example. These include Professor Władysław Dziewulski, a co-founder and professor at the Nicolaus Copernicus University, as well as the first director of Toruń Astronomic Observatory in 1945-1960 who also initiated the study of astrophysics and star astronomy in Poland; and Professor Wilhelmina Iwanowska, a co-founder of astronomical science at Toruń university, a vice-President of International Astronomical Union and the Freeman of the City of Toruń.<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Nicolaus Copernicus monument</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqhp_bbQv6meniaGV5wxitPBbWWKaGYjm3izLVS7va2__8Owg6c6H_ReJnwNJWKVhFN1l2FsqORCUYpUrhSUNphT403wI1sNfoXozAul8Q7FmhB0OQ7dk6Ogr8giKS_3He1h8eOUNZP8S/s1600-h/nicolaus+Copernicus+monument.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqhp_bbQv6meniaGV5wxitPBbWWKaGYjm3izLVS7va2__8Owg6c6H_ReJnwNJWKVhFN1l2FsqORCUYpUrhSUNphT403wI1sNfoXozAul8Q7FmhB0OQ7dk6Ogr8giKS_3He1h8eOUNZP8S/s400/nicolaus+Copernicus+monument.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423587845404588290" border="0"></a><br />The most famous Nicolaus Copernicus monument is located centrally – in the Old City Market Square, the most important part of the city. The last places commemorating the great astronomer include the Astronomical Observatory under the auspices of Nicolaus Copernicus University (with one of the biggest radio telescopes in the world, potent enough to locate a mobile phone on the Moon with the accuracy of several metres<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Nicolaus Copernicus University</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdZR0_f1E8avNQYgXnC7joqYiouM4x2AvtB_-ew-rHhiKbeIM1QMdauNIoL_KCoIqQms2CbdCoDnE-zshRY6HW8gcG4wCwiOX-25VnPEc-SLP9NsSsLZjOtRWI8VLLJZzeB9MWQFhLwfVL/s1600-h/Nicolaus+Copernicus+University.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdZR0_f1E8avNQYgXnC7joqYiouM4x2AvtB_-ew-rHhiKbeIM1QMdauNIoL_KCoIqQms2CbdCoDnE-zshRY6HW8gcG4wCwiOX-25VnPEc-SLP9NsSsLZjOtRWI8VLLJZzeB9MWQFhLwfVL/s400/Nicolaus+Copernicus+University.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423588290507525650" border="0"></a><br />Toruń University is the biggest and oldest academic institution in the north of Poland, which received high appraisal for its Departament of Law and Administration as well as the Departament of Physics and Astronomy. It is also the only university in Poland employing world-famous restorers in the Department of Fine Arts. The university is made up of 16 departments and a number of other organizational units which accommodate over 32 thousand students. It employs over 4.4 thousand people, including over 2.2 thousand academic workers.<br />The university is also the only secular academic institution in Poland which hosted Pope John Paul II.<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Gothic<br /></font><font size="3"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVkc4uDZulZDz1zgIpWlbfQNmcqdjKdI8IU5qbIRVjycxScWyqj92bz1XcNTI8rHgiBpiPc69dnrCsITKf6pVEJ0tpDC5dvASm0blVwOkuRnPhMc4FDu7_EYmkVDxgAbXIidupw1Qhg6Fa/s1600-h/Gothic.bmp"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 258px; height: 316px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVkc4uDZulZDz1zgIpWlbfQNmcqdjKdI8IU5qbIRVjycxScWyqj92bz1XcNTI8rHgiBpiPc69dnrCsITKf6pVEJ0tpDC5dvASm0blVwOkuRnPhMc4FDu7_EYmkVDxgAbXIidupw1Qhg6Fa/s400/Gothic.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423588676057265154" border="0"></a><br />Toruń is second to Krakow in respect of the unique and original large medieval architectural complex. It is also the first such city in the north of Poland, which is why it is often referred to as the Krakow of the North or Little Krakow. The complex has survived largely intact since the Copernicus time and can boast the greatest number of world-class monuments and the greatest number of monuments in total. The Gothic burgher architecture with the Old City Town Hall, the St. George Guild House, numerous tenement houses, granaries, defense walls, towers and gates, as well as some other secular buildings, is original, unique and the biggest in Poland.<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Old City Town Hall</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd3ozoEjIImxMZp22FROSM-tcnEJ9Q7GkXCv9-L7uT0YkQPUfAR0t1nX4UYlqpwiIN8AtVlLlFn7fB7PpmkQOr-EP3w8nc5nn5p1fReIJEDTsVx_zhROjVQJMxE8ugW-wsDK5bnGAtOhxG/s1600-h/old+city+town+torun.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd3ozoEjIImxMZp22FROSM-tcnEJ9Q7GkXCv9-L7uT0YkQPUfAR0t1nX4UYlqpwiIN8AtVlLlFn7fB7PpmkQOr-EP3w8nc5nn5p1fReIJEDTsVx_zhROjVQJMxE8ugW-wsDK5bnGAtOhxG/s400/old+city+town+torun.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423588905500290098" border="0"></a><br />Old City Town Hall is the most impressive building of its kind in Poland and one of the biggest in the world. Its tower dating from 1274 is the oldest city hall tower in this part of Europe. Toruń City Hall is among the most outstanding achievements of burgher architecture in Europe. Its perfect and and well-balanced proportions, together with the rich and artistic interior furnishing reflect the architectural artistry and an excellent taste of Toruń patriciate who considered it their pride. It was the manifestation of the economic power of Toruń, the former Hanseatic trade emporium, and the most splendid secular building in the city, the venue for momentous occasions and grand ceremonies, as well as the residence of the Kings of Poland who particularly frequently paid visits to Toruń.<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">St. Johns’ Cathedral</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEh6zbf5zJXIFEGw42npZpC1DxRb5O3DrYyIyigsuymdeSSyfd4PSXUzspJ0HBmitG16W9A5RV33Z4rbCckaL8kllwA1PRbAro1C7F5S6QIrSsLcQe0QjWeurTDv_GnpmmsCR_qPN96j_Q/s1600-h/St.+Johns%E2%80%99+Cathedral.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEh6zbf5zJXIFEGw42npZpC1DxRb5O3DrYyIyigsuymdeSSyfd4PSXUzspJ0HBmitG16W9A5RV33Z4rbCckaL8kllwA1PRbAro1C7F5S6QIrSsLcQe0QjWeurTDv_GnpmmsCR_qPN96j_Q/s400/St.+Johns%E2%80%99+Cathedral.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423589425833573490" border="0"></a><br />St. John the Baptist and St. John Evangelist are the patrons of the red brick Gothic high-hall building with “Tuba Dei”, the second seven-ton-heavy bell in Poland, numerous Copernicus-related memorabilia, the font where the great astronomer took baptism, the heart of King Jan Olbracht (John Albert) and the first attic over the north galilees in Poland. The church, one of the oldest and one of the three biggest buildings of its kind in the north of Poland, boats many valuable works of art, particularly those of the Gothic period. It witnessed numerous ceremonies, including those dignified by the Kings of Poland and was at the centre of attention of the powerful Toruń patriciate and gentry, who took it under their care and endowed chapels, epitaphs, and gravestones surviving till today.<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Tuba Dei Bell</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6YaGejLLa0I2hLBg1QPU9xwWwA1KZWfjAxFw6rRdmA1Pv56m-INBUVViV7xGwkSVjR3YUjbSazCQk30PrNVERzTgbWc6ZHlDn0vpS5bkUegsAjNwgSjH2MvbRtBfdk-rrnZpaPvjobUIz/s1600-h/tura+bell.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6YaGejLLa0I2hLBg1QPU9xwWwA1KZWfjAxFw6rRdmA1Pv56m-INBUVViV7xGwkSVjR3YUjbSazCQk30PrNVERzTgbWc6ZHlDn0vpS5bkUegsAjNwgSjH2MvbRtBfdk-rrnZpaPvjobUIz/s400/tura+bell.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423590071823396530" border="0"></a><br />Since 1500 St. Johns’ Cathedral tower has accommodated an unusual bell - Tuba Dei (God’s Trumpet). Its peculiarity lies in the fact that it is not only the biggest medieval bell in Poland, but also one of the biggest Polish bells in general (until recently the second biggest). Before casting the famous Sigismund Bell in Krakow (1521), Tuba Dei had been recognized as the biggest in the Kingdom of Poland.<br />Today it is no small attraction for tourists, especially when it sounds, which takes place several times a year. Not once in its over 500-year-old history had it been subject to destruction or plunder during war.<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Our Lady Church)</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RGPJG_tL4T-u_WyfJ8qoZAXoHYDuUfGA00CpiGAvX1_ehjYkcwYVRiEHyqETmdHkOd1Ko5oeC2C5pqSBRhl-8xfZm1WOHufgfvR-D1jbgoWXGphbpaaYugt_yQiCf0DEbK2_4KU-PQUh/s1600-h/our+lady+church.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RGPJG_tL4T-u_WyfJ8qoZAXoHYDuUfGA00CpiGAvX1_ehjYkcwYVRiEHyqETmdHkOd1Ko5oeC2C5pqSBRhl-8xfZm1WOHufgfvR-D1jbgoWXGphbpaaYugt_yQiCf0DEbK2_4KU-PQUh/s400/our+lady+church.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423593022490335106" border="0"></a><br />One of the most outstanding achievements of Gothic church architecture in Poland and among the three biggest churches in the north of Poland. The slender monumental post-Franciscan church towering over the north part of the Old City boasts a number of valuable artistic and historic works of art, such as the Gothic stalls, mural polychromes, a large Renaissance organ - the oldest and most beautiful in Poland, epitaphs and the mausoleum of Princess Anna Vasa. During the Renaissance the post-monastic buildings adjacent to the church accommodated the famous Academic Gymnasium marking the intellectual level of Royal Prussia.<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">St. James's Church</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBfR5YM_-q_o6ktbiMWeJXwXXzCaycJikLUYDNpyyA3iXoJzmJ74lteBxFcxOyujd-EYg57SKHOqn4yVZ5VLndX4At7TqXB6Snpc5moNJm8wl2c85iu9MFriNjS8C7u0ilHmszBH6q-ckg/s1600-h/St.+James%E2%80%99s+Church.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBfR5YM_-q_o6ktbiMWeJXwXXzCaycJikLUYDNpyyA3iXoJzmJ74lteBxFcxOyujd-EYg57SKHOqn4yVZ5VLndX4At7TqXB6Snpc5moNJm8wl2c85iu9MFriNjS8C7u0ilHmszBH6q-ckg/s400/St.+James%E2%80%99s+Church.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423592521473171218" border="0"></a><br />St. James's Church is another example of an excellent Gothic church building. It is the smallest such building in Toruń and it is distinctive for its architectural features which were rare in Poland and characteristic of West European medieval church buildings. Some consider it the most balanced and the most beautiful Toruń church.<br />Its most valuable interior furnishings include the rich medieval mural polychromes and numerous Gothic works of art, such as the Tree of Life, the painting of the Passion of Christ, a number of statues and sculptures and the Renaissance organ front.<br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Passion of Christ</font><font size="3"><br />A large 274 x 221 cm (9 x 7.3 feet) painting presenting 22 scenes of the Passion of Christ against landscape and late Gothic architecture imitating that of Jerusalem can be found in the presbytery of St. James’s Church. It is a precious and fascinating example of Gothic panel painting, made after 1480 in Toruń workshop. Formerly it belonged to Toruń St. Nicholas Church, dismantled in the 19th century. All the scenes – an evangelical lecture of a moralizing character – are characteristic of Dominican teachings. The sacral scenes are accompanied here by the genre scenes which show, for example, a shepherd with oxen, hunting, women with baskets, and a figure of a person in a boat. At the bottom and in the middle of the painting, there is a kneeling figure of its founder, presented against a background of a wall. It has been partly influenced by the Netherlandic art, while its creator in all probability referred to Hans Memling’s Passion of 1480 in Turin.<br /><br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Leaning Tower</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYSDoxbvWk7xqB-__FbgYX6USePOhg6pTddBXreNaFsPM7Jg1_Aj5G1gN5B-11c2TVX4I1km430BPTfQtPKZzup40OPljtYClQ41FE0ay9kIZZJ-9B6J0Ftz-S3bCWqkfazTJUdwa62kVL/s1600-h/The+Leaning+Tower.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYSDoxbvWk7xqB-__FbgYX6USePOhg6pTddBXreNaFsPM7Jg1_Aj5G1gN5B-11c2TVX4I1km430BPTfQtPKZzup40OPljtYClQ41FE0ay9kIZZJ-9B6J0Ftz-S3bCWqkfazTJUdwa62kVL/s400/The+Leaning+Tower.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423593491468551522" border="0"></a><br />Formerly part of the city fortifications with 54 other fortified towers. Contrary to what the legends say, its tilt is the result of the instability of the clay ground. Surviving in the line of the city walls, it is among the biggest wonders and tourist attractions in Toruń today. It is another symbol of the city, most frequently photographed by tourists.<br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Artus House (Artus Court)</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIiCbCbYUQQU9CDGj0HE2tScPdCG9ogmWSSuUVFdiHOBeQIHPVSvwGQ6OxY1LEhjF_ty_fCCPYtQUd4N_HccnkyNkoEXmMzCLEEiuhwJIJAx4c92q8NN_Pd6pJsZh7-xOmu4An4WxBuLnq/s1600-h/Artus+House.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 398px; height: 365px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIiCbCbYUQQU9CDGj0HE2tScPdCG9ogmWSSuUVFdiHOBeQIHPVSvwGQ6OxY1LEhjF_ty_fCCPYtQUd4N_HccnkyNkoEXmMzCLEEiuhwJIJAx4c92q8NN_Pd6pJsZh7-xOmu4An4WxBuLnq/s400/Artus+House.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423594224202370098" border="0"></a><br />Artus Court in Toruń and Gdańsk are the only buildings of their kind in the world today. Even though the present-day building dates back to the 19th century, its structure has been modeled on that from 1386. Few people realize that Toruń Artus Court was the first building of its kind erected in the Teutonic State. It was the seat of St. George Brotherhood, an exclusive association of merchants and rich Toruń patricians, active in Toruń in 1311-1842. It was the venue for a number of important meetings, including those of a political character, the most important of which was signing the Second Peace Treaty of Toruń in 1466 concluding the Thirteen Years’ War and putting an end to the Teutonic State in its former shape.<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">The Star Residence</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSEpJ3NWt3bd6vwEjQlUsaszgwfIZtUA3cRGEdwDcBXOJK6NAjgQJ0F_0OG77F385sG85rykZcZmnLuOGEzMM2dh81V3mFcmADgKZ22YfW3-ww135hEqhEkPKPKHwX5V-RoAoJhcXRCgAR/s1600-h/The+Star+Residence.bmp"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 253px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSEpJ3NWt3bd6vwEjQlUsaszgwfIZtUA3cRGEdwDcBXOJK6NAjgQJ0F_0OG77F385sG85rykZcZmnLuOGEzMM2dh81V3mFcmADgKZ22YfW3-ww135hEqhEkPKPKHwX5V-RoAoJhcXRCgAR/s400/The+Star+Residence.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423594810068294322" border="0"></a><br />The Star Residence is among the most imposing and best preserved Baroque patrician houses in central and northern Europe and one of the six world-class monuments in Toruń. Before its reconstruction in the Baroque style, it was the property of renowned Filippo Buonaccorsi, in 1496, known as Callimachus, an outstanding humanist and royal counselor at Wawel court in Krakow.<br />Today the building is the best example of a typical Toruń Baroque patrician tenement house with the interior and furnishings typical of the south Baltic coast. These include the spiral staircase with Minerva and a lion, polychrome structural ceilings, antique woodwork and the splendid, richly ornamental floral façade.<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Medieval patrician houses</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS6qx6vXbKlYVqdQqbmrR-u0TCDeY7y0-ky4_IjcjsN_ocpJiF9cXxrHBdKi9GrH0_NdtJsRNYjV2aH6oClyl-D67Pow8DR0VE4vxa5XxmF1vbfROf3GeGoPK-hZJJL-GmJXziHUkyTolk/s1600-h/Medieval+patrician+houses.bmp"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 257px; height: 288px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS6qx6vXbKlYVqdQqbmrR-u0TCDeY7y0-ky4_IjcjsN_ocpJiF9cXxrHBdKi9GrH0_NdtJsRNYjV2aH6oClyl-D67Pow8DR0VE4vxa5XxmF1vbfROf3GeGoPK-hZJJL-GmJXziHUkyTolk/s400/Medieval+patrician+houses.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423603067039742082" border="0"></a><br />Toruń can boast the greatest number of well-preserved medieval burgher tenements, dating back mainly to the 14th and 15th centuries. There are a few hundred houses with more or less discernible Gothic features, unique on both the national and European scale. They are among the best preserved buildings of their kind and well illustrate a typical house in an old affluent medieval city. Despite numerous reconstructions in the 19th century, many tenements have retained their original Gothic interior layout today, together with the precious mural polychromes, polychrome vaults and ceilings, and facades. Toruń has the greatest number of surviving murals in secular homes. Beside Toruń, they can be found in some of Warsaw tenements, two in Gdańsk City Hall and one on the façade of a tenement in Wrocław.<br />Toruń patrician tenements and their rich ornamentation manifest the former affluence of the city and the artistic aspirations of its inhabitants shaped by West-European patterns.<br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Mural and ceiling polychromes</font><font size="3"><br />Toruń is undoubtedly one of the few cities which can boast surviving mural and ceiling polychromes both in the secular and church buildings. They are unique both for their number and quality. Most Gothic polychromes have survived in medieval Toruń churches and, extremely rarely, in patrician houses. They are, at the same time, the oldest examples of Gothic polychromes in burgher residences in Poland. Vigorous Toruń studios produced a number of outstanding artworks. In the Renaissance and Mannerism, the successive periods of cultural development of Toruń, plychromes were largely produced in private homes, which proved the good taste and financial capacity of Toruń burghers.<br />Polychrome ceilings in Toruń patrician tenements are unique for their number despite numerous cataclysms the city suffered in the 17th and 18th centuries and 19th century reconstructions.<br /><br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Granaries</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7AdcUgdG3ggffKiEJDlvuCB38VVBiL6RrsB6sY6dfmzMKxX7loIOKUUSbuq4h5JEN7hf92p263Rf8NI_x6VsPdHQwPlj5W4Xtu_SEv9qB2FzwfmQ3_A1LYLfoCFgdmDDBH-JI9Uw7mZpu/s1600-h/Granaries.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7AdcUgdG3ggffKiEJDlvuCB38VVBiL6RrsB6sY6dfmzMKxX7loIOKUUSbuq4h5JEN7hf92p263Rf8NI_x6VsPdHQwPlj5W4Xtu_SEv9qB2FzwfmQ3_A1LYLfoCFgdmDDBH-JI9Uw7mZpu/s400/Granaries.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423603476600435346" border="0"></a><br />Toruń, as one of the principal trade centres and the most important Vistula harbour in the 13th and 14th centuries, developed sophisticated architectural designs employed not only in churches, public buildings, fortifications and residences, but also in granaries. As early as the beginning of the 14th century Toruń merchant tenements were higher and had larger storage facilities (the so-called granary houses). The number of individual granaries in the 14th century totaled about 30. They were typically located within the city walls rather than immediately beside the river. Apart from these, there were also the Teutonic granaries.<br />The surviving Toruń granaries are among the oldest and most valuable in Poland, well illustrating the architectural forms and ornamental details of their time. They also mark Toruń membership in the Hanseatic League and its active involvement in the early long-distance trade.<br /><br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Museums</font><font size="3"><br /><br />Toruń District Museum (one of the biggest in the north of Poland), holding exhibitions in several departments, offers the biggest high-class collections of old Toruń art and unique Pomeranian, Polish and world masterpieces. The biggest collections are on show in the Old City Town Hall, housing as many as 9 exhibitions. The most valuable include the unique medieval Judical Hall, Gothic stained glass and religious sculptures, the Renaissance portraits of Toruń patriciate, the oldest pictorial guide to Kings of Poland painted in their lifetime, a rich collection of Toruń intarsia furniture, the goldsmithery collection with the unique treasure of Skrwilno and the gallery of Polish painting of the mid-18th century onwards, including works by Bacciarelli, Smuglewicz, Gerson, Gierymski brothers, Witkiewicz, Malczewski, Matejko and many others.<br />Two medieval Hanseatic tenements accommodate Copernicus House, while the exquisite Star Residence contains not only the marvelous interior furnishing of a typical Toruń patrician residence house, but also the collections of the Far-Eastern art with the oldest Chinese artwork of the Han dynasty.<br />Equally interesting are also Tony Halik Travellers’ Museum, the Museum of Ethnography, the University Museum, Toruń Fort no. 4, the Centre For Modern Art, etc.<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Stained Glass</font><font size="3"><br />In the Middle Ages Toruń was one of the most important stained-glass production centres. Toruń’s stained-glass producers were widely-known for their skills and exported their products even as far as Courland. The surviving stained-glass fragments from the presbytery in St. Johns’ and St. Mary’s Churches and above all the precious collection of figurative stained glass from St. Nicholas Church suggest that the 14th century saw the flowering of the high quality stained-glass art in Toruń. All of them are stored at the District Museum, which houses the largest collection of stained glass in Poland. The collection encompasses stained glass from non-existent St. Nicholas’s Church and St. Mary’s Church in Toruń, and the parish church in Chełmno.<br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">The Skrwilno Treasure</font><font size="3"><br />The set of Mannerist and Renaissance jewellery of the 16th and 17th centuries is an uncommon treasure exhibited in the District Museum. The objects constitute a precious collection of decorative handicraft articles of high artistic quality. The exceptional significance of this collection of objects derives from the fact that it was the possession of a particular family, a household; thus the treasure becomes a kind of document, presenting the level of wealth of a representative of nobility from the central part of the country in the first half of the 17th century.<br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Intarsia woodwork (Toruń furniture)</font><font size="3"><br />The Toruń intarsia woodwork reached its peak in the 18th century, though the technique had been used in the city since the second half of the 16th century. Around 1730 it became the dominant decorative technique, applied to nearly all elements of patrician interior furnishings, such as hall wardrobes, hanging cabinets, longcase clocks, chests, boxes and doors, as well as to those with a representative function, for example, the portals, doors and panels in the Old City Hall and churches. This high quality artistic furnishing earned the name of Toruń furniture. Produced in large quantities, the Baroque and Rococo furniture gained enormous popularity, making Toruń artisans widely recognized. The year 1793, which saw the incorporation of Toruń into German Prussia, irretrievably brought an end to the golden age of Toruń furniture making.<br />Today the Toruń intarsia woodwork can be seen in the Old City Town Hall museum or the Holy Spirit Church.<br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Gothic Castles</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkY08qsvq0StSO4x2Bxw1ziDNWrH1Ao7v31Ro9_G_a3PhZO7BJauLNEcahYYjXS9zeM_B1ndAB7e-aEcswjySmRCO1FzDXwBaX86MRJvfvZEV4OuoqiT10kc2K1h_TlMYnlkbSys0EtZq-/s1600-h/Gothic+Castle.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 275px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkY08qsvq0StSO4x2Bxw1ziDNWrH1Ao7v31Ro9_G_a3PhZO7BJauLNEcahYYjXS9zeM_B1ndAB7e-aEcswjySmRCO1FzDXwBaX86MRJvfvZEV4OuoqiT10kc2K1h_TlMYnlkbSys0EtZq-/s400/Gothic+Castle.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423604024469506770" border="0"></a><br />Rarely can a Polish city boast more than one castle located within its boundaries. In Toruń there were two, representative of two separate countries in the past and currently in ruins. These are the mid-13th century Teutonic Castle – the headquarters of the Commander on the right Vistula bank and early 13th century Polish Dybów Castle – the headquarters of the royal district governors (starost), on the left river bank, i.e. within the territory of the Kingdom of Poland.<br />Toruń, as a Teutonic border city and the so-called ‘Gate to Prussia’, was located the furthest south in the Teutonic State and was the first and biggest Prussian city to be encountered while traveling from the Kingom of Poland. It was thus the natural meeting point and an arena for a number of political events in the history of Polish-Teutonic relations. Its strategic position led to erecting two important watchtowers here, each belonging to a different state.<br />Besides them, the area boasts the castles in Zamek Bierzgłowski and Złotoria, the latter currently in ruins.<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Toruń Fortress</font><font size="3"><br />Nearly 150 surviving structures comprising one of the biggest 19th-century fortresses in Europe built by the Prussians are open to visitors today. Among other things, the fortress includes 15 large forts, well preserved and overwhelming in their size.<br />The black tourist trail is designed to take visitors to the surviving structures of Toruń fortress.<br /><br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Planetarium</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj20j9dfAB6DZ9ClYOxxkjbmXBYEtFxLW5LoVWoEUC-GT5wzFvyUVaZxavwuJLmpSV-wXeiCltB7Nj3CgEQ_4pWwtrwxcDL4dAuO69hzAYOb8GwcOpCM1Sn-BA1jIep6boSZbbZ5_uY-pYg/s1600-h/Planetarium.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj20j9dfAB6DZ9ClYOxxkjbmXBYEtFxLW5LoVWoEUC-GT5wzFvyUVaZxavwuJLmpSV-wXeiCltB7Nj3CgEQ_4pWwtrwxcDL4dAuO69hzAYOb8GwcOpCM1Sn-BA1jIep6boSZbbZ5_uY-pYg/s400/Planetarium.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423605210183248690" border="0"></a><br />Copernican Toruń would by no means do without a planetarium, the most up-to-date and popular institution of its kind in Poland. Its modern facilities and special effects guarantee an unforgettable show. Here one can see a starry night in the middle of the day, experience a space flight to distant planets, fly through Saturn rings or look into the space from the perspective of other planets.<br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Centre for Contemporary Art</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm3zbxtwqJrc5UAy8Y2gUyyHv8pVFLKp-2xEyGxm09j9ttCVEu8yFAkY6GNAVLAy5sZZCosQ22R_nvSbUA3-xb2Vi4q3gtHO4zE5AToR66zHLk1aM5tzwPmEVarG05I9UvJz6IvkK6NGfE/s1600-h/Centre+for+Contemporary+Art.bmp"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 258px; height: 208px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm3zbxtwqJrc5UAy8Y2gUyyHv8pVFLKp-2xEyGxm09j9ttCVEu8yFAkY6GNAVLAy5sZZCosQ22R_nvSbUA3-xb2Vi4q3gtHO4zE5AToR66zHLk1aM5tzwPmEVarG05I9UvJz6IvkK6NGfE/s400/Centre+for+Contemporary+Art.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423605488532382274" border="0"></a><br />Toruń Centre for Modern Art "Znaki Czasu" is the first newly erected modern art museum since 1939. Its construction won the 2nd place on the Radio Channel 3 plebiscite for the most important cultural event in Poland in 2008. Aspiring to the role of the contemporary centre of Toruń’s artistic life, the centre aims to develop, popularize and promote modern art. These objectives will be met through creating regional art collections, organizing exhibitions, issuing publications and engaging in educational activities.<br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Museum of Ethnography</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivm1QG64cn5EVAcxBS7CTnInuXfmXrwlpXwHIY2kYpZl2tPeroElet33oKjV09IRXchLwLRx5xVqIejSZ6A2GssLSS6JSpBTLzlCU__rl_r2GVwrllZLfursUR_r2hXqEqAJJ3aq3XINtk/s1600-h/Museum+of+Ethnography.bmp"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 252px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivm1QG64cn5EVAcxBS7CTnInuXfmXrwlpXwHIY2kYpZl2tPeroElet33oKjV09IRXchLwLRx5xVqIejSZ6A2GssLSS6JSpBTLzlCU__rl_r2GVwrllZLfursUR_r2hXqEqAJJ3aq3XINtk/s400/Museum+of+Ethnography.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423605868841805282" border="0"></a><br />Museum of Ethnography located in the very centre of Toruń, adjacent to the Old City, offers the possibility to become familiar with the old Polish countryside (especially from the regions of Kujavia, Kashubia and Bory Tucholskie) and its traditions. It comprises folk architecture with fully-equipped farmsteads, a post mill, a water mil, a forge and a fire station. The museum is one of the three independent and biggest museums of their kind in Poland. Its collection spans the whole of the folk culture in the north of Poland and the fisherman’s tradition in Poland.<br />Another open-air museum is located outside the city centre in Kaszczorek. Its exhibition relates to fishing and rafting traditions on the Vistula River.<br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Bydgoskie Przedmieście District</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOJmMK2w5RA_FCkdWdjo7W6p8PF4z0S5r4yCuW-IXhcKfyMY_49VePkZCYJm7rdeVNaB5ZQoLISYv8lUZwwc0E_Xfx7WbwrbL_JToJEns0dJUTTF4Uj11TaznGd_rMXYg-x72Rm_OE-ny0/s1600-h/Bydgoskie+Przedmie%C5%9Bcie+District.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 313px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOJmMK2w5RA_FCkdWdjo7W6p8PF4z0S5r4yCuW-IXhcKfyMY_49VePkZCYJm7rdeVNaB5ZQoLISYv8lUZwwc0E_Xfx7WbwrbL_JToJEns0dJUTTF4Uj11TaznGd_rMXYg-x72Rm_OE-ny0/s400/Bydgoskie+Przedmie%C5%9Bcie+District.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423606136819916354" border="0"></a><br />Bydgoskie Przedmieście District (or Bydgoskie Suburb; suburb as compared to the Old Quarter) is located to the west of the city centre, owes its unique character to its exceptional location on the Vistula escarpment, the English-style park of 1817, the abundance of greenery and a variety of architectural styles. Its present-day architecture dates back to the 19th and early 20th centuries and comprises Classicist, Eclectic, Art Nouveau, and neo-Gothic tenements, as well as half-timbered houses. The buildings are characterized by corner turrets, ornamented tops, half-timbered walls, the multitude of details and decorations.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-XF2OiWHYh7-0EwVFVpEA6VfkwwpqtCumXCLjH_IQ9TQ7OujN29r64h2S06nQq2EjadqyNxhSWCxbaITvXsEwSi5fGs1cZRusctvm9Hz5Ur0Ihvhi4UkUO0oWSAyn2Dyv8XQ6ZbAiIgfr/s1600-h/Bydgoskie+Przedmie%C5%9Bcie+District.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-XF2OiWHYh7-0EwVFVpEA6VfkwwpqtCumXCLjH_IQ9TQ7OujN29r64h2S06nQq2EjadqyNxhSWCxbaITvXsEwSi5fGs1cZRusctvm9Hz5Ur0Ihvhi4UkUO0oWSAyn2Dyv8XQ6ZbAiIgfr/s400/Bydgoskie+Przedmie%C5%9Bcie+District.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423606459733717954" border="0"></a><br />Bydgoskie Suburb was an exclusive and privileged district of the city attracting office workers, officers and freelancers. A large number of well-known and significant people resided here. In the interwar period the so-called ‘Zofijówka’, a pension run by Kazimiera Żuławska, hosted such artists as Stanisław Przybyszewski, Tymon Niesiołowski, Stanisław Ignacy Witkiewicz, Juliusz Osterwa and others. Here the first Polish Oficer Naval Academy was established<br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Philadelphia Boulevard</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZf_MaJbQXvK4iPZS-5YjyU6wLf_hINgyx8jtDeBpSHaXpsql8NUz26C4_xdvvQ4p-mHJDYmwflbHxXQVhcszWVfFixRQO3nhvTJnuREsaqRRVDvOsAl9WNF24E_4Eer3Dl-8O_G28ecQC/s1600-h/Philadelphia+Boulevard.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZf_MaJbQXvK4iPZS-5YjyU6wLf_hINgyx8jtDeBpSHaXpsql8NUz26C4_xdvvQ4p-mHJDYmwflbHxXQVhcszWVfFixRQO3nhvTJnuREsaqRRVDvOsAl9WNF24E_4Eer3Dl-8O_G28ecQC/s400/Philadelphia+Boulevard.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423606656437578306" border="0"></a><br />The Vistula boulevard running between the mediaeval city walls and the river is among people’s most favourite walking areas. It covers the area previously occupied by the harbour, operating from the foundation of the city in the 13th century until the 1970s. In 1976 the boulevard received its present-day name in honour of Philadelphia, one of Toruń’s sister cities. The main part of the old harbour, situated between the Convent Gate and the Sailors Gate, accommodated harbour facilities, a 200-metre-long wooden unloading ramp, a crane, commodity warehouses and others. In 1585 the whole area was paved. The former harbour was teeming with life, filled with sailors and merchants bustling about dozens of docked ships from where the overseas commodities were unloaded and transported to huge granaries, cellars and warehouses. In the Middle Ages Toruń harbour hosted seagoing ships. According the 14th century sources, there were as many as 172 Toruń merchants involved in the great sea trade.<br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Kępa Bazarowa Islet</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguZp4_mZzeysHB3hXMool3Dye0erBk8GV_-PPAixSVgztKzvch4YErq_ZiY_xGD1EtMIZWlF6TxNBPp0IhVxROFFx_lEZqHjOG2jAWDHJOyCYvcNjYYu27wBNKM2xwEH9-WyqOm6KwWMnv/s1600-h/K%C4%99pa+Bazarowa+Islet.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguZp4_mZzeysHB3hXMool3Dye0erBk8GV_-PPAixSVgztKzvch4YErq_ZiY_xGD1EtMIZWlF6TxNBPp0IhVxROFFx_lEZqHjOG2jAWDHJOyCYvcNjYYu27wBNKM2xwEH9-WyqOm6KwWMnv/s400/K%C4%99pa+Bazarowa+Islet.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423607336762993538" border="0"></a><br />Kępa Bazarowa is a unique centrally located islet with the area of 70 ha (173 acres), over 2.5 km (1.5 miles) long and over 400 m (1313 feet) wide. Half of its surface (32.4 ha; 80 acres) is covered by a nature reservation, a riverine forest – the remains of the riparian forests in the Valley of Toruń. Here, on a modest viewing platform, the most popular and fascinating panorama of Toruń Old City can be seen. The place also bears historical significance. On February 1 it witnessed signing the First Peace Treaty of Toruń, concluding the so-called Great War between Poland and the Teutonic State. Its name dates back to the 13th century and originates from merchants stopping over here.<br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Greenery</font><font size="3"><br />Toruń is remarkable for its greenery. Numerous urban parks, street greenery, extensive forests and valleys along the river make it a beauty spot. An amazing place of exceptional natural beauty is the centrally located forest reservation on Kępa Bazarowa islet, situated on the left bank of the Vistula opposite the Old Quarter. The areas south, east and north of Toruń are part of a wider protected landscape. The southern (Kuiavian) part of the city is covered by one of the biggest protected complexes of inland dunes in Poland, known as “The Dune Area to the South of Toruń”. The northern part with historic Barbarka, covered by forest, is the leisure hinterland of Toruń offering hiking and cycling trails, as well as the famous regional trail of natural and educational value running through Bielany, Barbarka, Przysiek and Bydgoskie Suburb. <br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Barbarka District</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYMZ_Wq-Fy79R3CWw1tvm6L5erRicoiRoPwAwalBO9k_2CthUV7G4z3VcnwNuinrq3PNxBwIo8RjCn9xKz84_3Iqt94E_cxD47S1ubox66YO_IgqpMzwb4UGO7ci2mzb4h6OazXkx9X_aY/s1600-h/Barbarka.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYMZ_Wq-Fy79R3CWw1tvm6L5erRicoiRoPwAwalBO9k_2CthUV7G4z3VcnwNuinrq3PNxBwIo8RjCn9xKz84_3Iqt94E_cxD47S1ubox66YO_IgqpMzwb4UGO7ci2mzb4h6OazXkx9X_aY/s400/Barbarka.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423607897670118402" border="0"></a><br />Located north-west of the city limits, Barbarka is an over 700-year-old forest hamlet with a rich history and many places of interest. However, it is not only historically significant; it offers also a number of leisure facilities and is an ideal destination for all nature lovers.<br />In the medieval times Barbarka was the shrine of St. Barbara, who, according to a legend, was to reveal herself to a hermit. It soon became a pilgrimage site and received a visit from, for example, Polish King Zygmunt Stary (Sigismund the Elder) who in 1521 came to see the local chapel and the Gothic figure of St. Barbara. For a few hundred years Barbarka owned a mill. During World War II Barbarka witnessed mass executions of Toruń intelligentsia by Germans.<br />Today it is a large interesting and full-fledged leisure spot, picturesquely located near a pond in the forest.<br /><br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Theatres</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXgM_gL5ZQutUpHX8j5ox8wIV2D8gubcmAUgPTAwQ4ryXmgpNpMZzxs6azU7GGrVrP6DQBcqe02olpmxzy6PiEeICnWI_CbCDz-9NfEilBvDAz77GAiK7LmASik6DJt1rkL0akvkUqyxh/s1600-h/Theatres.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXgM_gL5ZQutUpHX8j5ox8wIV2D8gubcmAUgPTAwQ4ryXmgpNpMZzxs6azU7GGrVrP6DQBcqe02olpmxzy6PiEeICnWI_CbCDz-9NfEilBvDAz77GAiK7LmASik6DJt1rkL0akvkUqyxh/s400/Theatres.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423608107034921842" border="0"></a><br />Apart from the unique architectural design, Toruń theatres offer diverse programs and can boast long historical traditions reaching as far back as the 16th century, which was when the theatres of Academic Gymnasium and the Jesuit College staged their performances in Arthus House.<br />The present-day building of Wilam Horzyca Theatre was erected in 1904 by a famous Vienna company owned by F. Fellner and H. Helmer. Its architecture combines the elements of the Eclectic, Baroque and Art Nouveau styles. Since 1991, the theatre has been organising “Kontakt” festivals.<br />Baj Pomorski Theatre is located in an unusual fairytale building with a unique facade, resembling a large wooden wardrobe at the entrance.<br /><br /><br /></font><font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Uncommon avenues</font><font size="3"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2BRKsnRqOthwikwLevxDPcshzapeHL14QOQej3eblDgAyoU1s1ts08psAnUfgXPdgKG8vqqkNEBN8X3VktDXz3O2Tr1fuvrdqoFAeWIep_iEHUiDUtv44QNqXv3JOTPqqiKUowp6F9T7p/s1600-h/%C5%BBeglarska+Street.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2BRKsnRqOthwikwLevxDPcshzapeHL14QOQej3eblDgAyoU1s1ts08psAnUfgXPdgKG8vqqkNEBN8X3VktDXz3O2Tr1fuvrdqoFAeWIep_iEHUiDUtv44QNqXv3JOTPqqiKUowp6F9T7p/s400/%C5%BBeglarska+Street.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423608569798290498" border="0"></a><br />Toruń Walk of Merchants' Marks (Aleja Gmerków) is located in Żeglarska Street, formerly a part of the Royal Avenue (Via Regia) and includes 25 marks of medieval Toruń Hanseatic merchants residing. Only a small number of medieval merchant families involved in the great international sea trade are listed here. Their activities were not confined only to their membership in the Hanseatic League but included also other areas of life.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFgnqrIawmp2FJo4OQaNyzmXyW9hi91GHLGOOtrGSbkX1d64f4GDeCqx_VLVebQxypY27Gm8CR6O-aWSR4aq3NGRoCDbExJX-dcIFmzSzRTCyIoi1U_1NIcrxOG7L2A48Tqiwpi-eaJlv/s1600-h/uncommon+avenues.bmp"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 258px; height: 388px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitFgnqrIawmp2FJo4OQaNyzmXyW9hi91GHLGOOtrGSbkX1d64f4GDeCqx_VLVebQxypY27Gm8CR6O-aWSR4aq3NGRoCDbExJX-dcIFmzSzRTCyIoi1U_1NIcrxOG7L2A48Tqiwpi-eaJlv/s400/uncommon+avenues.bmp" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5423608753001160386" border="0"></a><br />Another Toruń attraction is the Gingerbread Walk of Fame (Piernikowa Aleja Gwiazd) located in the centre of the Old City, in front of Artus Court. Each year two celebrities distinguished by their contributions to the city reveal their autographs here.<br /><br /><br /></font> <font style="font-weight: bold;" size="3">Significant cultural events</font><font size="3"><br />A cultural climate of a city can be defined by a number of cultural events organized there. Toruń, aspiring to win the prestige title of European Capital of Culture in 2016, has nothing to be ashamed of. The city earned its reputation as an important cultural centre for such large-scale cultural events as Toruń Festival of Science and Art (April), International Theatre Festival "Kontakt" (May), Probaltica Festival of Music and Art from the Baltic States (May), the international Ecumenical Christian Music Festival "Song of Songs" (June), International Summer Festival "Toruń – Music and Architecture" (summer), summer movie shows (July) and practically hundreds of other events.<br /><br /></font><h2><font size="3"><span class="mw-headline">Get in</span></font></h2> <font size="3"><a name="By_plane"></a></font><h3><font size="3"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">By plane</span></font></h3> <p><font size="3">There is an international airport in the nearby town of </font>Bydgoszcz<font size="3">. Ryan Air operates a daily service from the UK at budget rates. </font></p><p><font size="3">More flights go from </font>Warsaw<font size="3">: Warsaw Frederic Chopin Airport : For those travelling from Warsaw serviced by Polski Express. See also routes/timetables . </font></p> <font size="3"><a name="By_train"></a></font><h3><font size="3"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">By train</span></font></h3> <p><font size="3">The Polish State Railways h</font>as train connections from Warsaw and Gdansk as well as Poznan, Łódź, Katowice and Olsztyn<font size="3">. </font></p><p><font size="3">Torun's main railway station, Torun Glowny is situated on the other side of the river <b>Vistula</b>, meaning you will need to cross the bridge to get to the town. On foot this will take you about 35 minutes. You can also get into town via: </font></p> <ul><li><font size="3"> Taxi - There will be a plethora waiting outside the train station </font></li><li><font size="3"> Bus - Buses number 22 and 27 run directly to the old town. These depart from both sides of the railway station, however the kiosk for actually buying tickets is on the south side of the station. Take the bus two stops to Plac Rapackiego (You'll also notice the old town as you cross the bridge - it's the stop that immediately follows the bridge). You may need an additional ticket if carrying a large bag. </font></li></ul> <font size="3"><a name="By_car"></a></font><h3><font size="3"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">By car</span></font></h3> <p><font size="3">You can easily get there by car fro</font>m Warsaw, Gdansk (A1<font size="3">) and </font>Poznan<font size="3">. </font></p> <font size="3"><a name="By_bus"></a></font><h3><font size="3"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">By bus</span></font></h3> <p><font size="3">Many international connections.<br /></font></p> <font size="3"><a name="Get_around"></a></font><h2><font size="3"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline">Get around</span></font></h2> <p><font size="3">Torun's old town is quite small, and has no mass transit within it's walls. Consequently, walkin garound the old town is your best (and only) option. Outside the old town, there are plentiful buses and trams, while taxis are quite cheap. </font></p><p><font size="3">To get further afield car hire can be found for around 100zl a day. </font></p><font size="3"><br /></font>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1688064456643747173.post-28019795726369884662010-01-04T08:42:00.000-08:002010-01-04T09:47:56.722-08:00Orkney Islands "Historical Island for Celts and Vikings and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie4bQQNw2ttzhzK3Cqnd3xek7uvv-ESdHNK_G8bnyR_g1aXvOcra7mR_3OgvnbTfwLT7hYSnZDzJLwuMtvn-4qm2VYjAQkBPEyAikV5GCLTk88uFuTV_r30wJOnquUBrnMrHj3uk9DT431/s1600-h/orkney+islands.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie4bQQNw2ttzhzK3Cqnd3xek7uvv-ESdHNK_G8bnyR_g1aXvOcra7mR_3OgvnbTfwLT7hYSnZDzJLwuMtvn-4qm2VYjAQkBPEyAikV5GCLTk88uFuTV_r30wJOnquUBrnMrHj3uk9DT431/s400/orkney+islands.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422942118898409554" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">Very few places in the world enjoy so harmonious a marriage of landscape and seascape as does Orkney, and very few can boast such a profusion of archaeological wonders and variety of wildlife. Orkney consists of some 70 islands in total, of which only 17 of them are inhabited. However, they have been inhabited for more than 5000 years and can boast Northern Europe 's greatest concentration of prehistoric monuments. For the lover of archaeology Orkney is paradise, offering an uninterrupted continuum of mute stones ranging from the Neolithic period of about 4500 BC, through the Bronze and Iron Ages unto about AD700. The following centuries continue this line providing us with evidence for successive occupation of the islands by Celts and Vikings.<br /></span>Orkney contains some of the oldest and best-preserved Neolithic sites in Europe, and the "Heart of Neolithic Orkney" is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /><b>Stromness</b></span> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheIxqhBuHPDNM7JmWeO2XOOc39AV0VO8ZWbJfiyoK1iZY-iiP66tD_jRUfggr5_QEJ9mQoq7ICC_wc5s0ptT3RqPmex4yy1FEgoC6iBp6wmWrJCEVSkZ-Pkll69mMJhhkBZa9hFTnJAgi5/s1600-h/Stromness.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheIxqhBuHPDNM7JmWeO2XOOc39AV0VO8ZWbJfiyoK1iZY-iiP66tD_jRUfggr5_QEJ9mQoq7ICC_wc5s0ptT3RqPmex4yy1FEgoC6iBp6wmWrJCEVSkZ-Pkll69mMJhhkBZa9hFTnJAgi5/s400/Stromness.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422936395111016274" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Stromness (pop. 2,800) is the second-biggest town on Mainland island and serves as the main ferry terminal for the archipelago. Although the narrow cobbled lanes and gray stone houses look older than those in Kirkwall, the town actually dates from more recent times. The growth of Stromness started at the end of the 17th century when the Hudson Bay Company set up a base at the port and recruited sailors to crew the vessels that plied across the North Atlantic to northern Canada. During the 18th century whaling fleets called in for supplies on their way to the coast of Greenland. Orkney islanders, always recognized for their seafaring skills, were among those who signed up to serve on such famous vessels as Scott's R.R.S. Discovery and the legendary HMS Bounty of "Mutiny on the Bounty" fame.</span></p>< name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 2.4 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { size: 8.27in 11.69in; margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --</style> <p><meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 2.4 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { size: 8.27in 11.69in; margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --> </style> </p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong><br /></strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>St Magnus Cathedral</strong><strong> - Britain’s most northerly Cathedral</strong></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuaeUqLJ_Ck-fbltJpfGfyodSKcwnYlueC7i9VJlm5pw1LDb_5zJcGDOSggjNSshB7_nK3iFLNCDpSaDUMZxeCibDKVesdkn2F4pX1yka7iKJPaMWixqai43urCLtNZ_Rcbxs8nOYvdf8S/s1600-h/St+Magnus+Cathedral.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 333px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuaeUqLJ_Ck-fbltJpfGfyodSKcwnYlueC7i9VJlm5pw1LDb_5zJcGDOSggjNSshB7_nK3iFLNCDpSaDUMZxeCibDKVesdkn2F4pX1yka7iKJPaMWixqai43urCLtNZ_Rcbxs8nOYvdf8S/s400/St+Magnus+Cathedral.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422928248746648754" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">St Magnus Cathedral known as the ‘Light in the North’ was founded in 1137 by the Viking, Earl Rognvald, in order of his uncle St Magnus. The Cathedral belongs to the people of Orkney and its doors are open to all. The Cathedral, set in the heart of Kirkwall, the capital city of the Orkney Islands, off the north coast of Scotland, is a place of stillness, of serenity, of warmth, of the presence of God. We invite you explore this website which contains information about many aspects of the Cathedral’s life. </span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Corrigall Farm Museum</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gRwHgIb_DmAiogaNmevpcD46N8FmtzIPVN7MMFVtB-VBS7lM1Ij9RbwezAriQm-6z5IUOkMtmce_8p4YeFrwyZ6M0HhQaumuGfdAw2tQaBKDbwD3pGhtLoQX7Vf5sjoXN_7q9Uz-pcOY/s1600-h/Corrigall+Farm+Museum.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gRwHgIb_DmAiogaNmevpcD46N8FmtzIPVN7MMFVtB-VBS7lM1Ij9RbwezAriQm-6z5IUOkMtmce_8p4YeFrwyZ6M0HhQaumuGfdAw2tQaBKDbwD3pGhtLoQX7Vf5sjoXN_7q9Uz-pcOY/s400/Corrigall+Farm+Museum.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422928789630405682" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">About 12mi/19.2km to the south of Gurness Broch near the tiny village of Brough (signposted on the A986) lies Corrigall Farm, a museum which documents rural life on the Orkneys during the 19th century. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Hoy - Bird Reserve </b></span> </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-y9yom3SmVEoZdV_FTIFnDfplfUCTwjVP8II5nGbMQv2sDbkeb5fZrcVUdxKo4rtR5AIiP8cYsYktUB1EZxdrgfbG2n8KDTXsWYBfSNHfH2pL7rymg0JTfyv4G4lqeioG1aZQ9_0SXNoR/s1600-h/Hoy+-+Bird+Reserve.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-y9yom3SmVEoZdV_FTIFnDfplfUCTwjVP8II5nGbMQv2sDbkeb5fZrcVUdxKo4rtR5AIiP8cYsYktUB1EZxdrgfbG2n8KDTXsWYBfSNHfH2pL7rymg0JTfyv4G4lqeioG1aZQ9_0SXNoR/s400/Hoy+-+Bird+Reserve.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422929476554965586" border="0" /></a></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The 9,000acre/3,700ha of land around Ward Hill has been designated as a bird reserve (RSPB) and it makes an ideal spot for observing the great skuas and Arctic skuas that breed on the island. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Old Man Of Hoy</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1EAhr0sZq-cbMTSd0bSTWsd84URAW_i4on3cphoMd7d69RI1J3feDjd2A-prIX-M-RAtVUtTLa59oVsZCBj0qyrdy3b_YBegRdWecKR-UmDe7nUHMPtM0vsMCNCafl0ALXCPjHQhDZp8s/s1600-h/Old+man+of+Hoy.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1EAhr0sZq-cbMTSd0bSTWsd84URAW_i4on3cphoMd7d69RI1J3feDjd2A-prIX-M-RAtVUtTLa59oVsZCBj0qyrdy3b_YBegRdWecKR-UmDe7nUHMPtM0vsMCNCafl0ALXCPjHQhDZp8s/s400/Old+man+of+Hoy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422929808284397346" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The section of coastline at St John's Head is noted for the sheer stack known as the Old Man of Hoy a little further south. Fulmars, auks, shearwaters and gannets glide gracefully around the red sandstone column while the waves crash relentlessly against the base. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Hoy - St John's Head</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrZT1nKYu_7IZApMJV8MbAvVPHtFShOa8cJxt-MG5ZgnFRXUcWvNzxX4dtpC8TXRNef3U4O0-D5CfolSzqMpdRpsZjqxt1_pBEUj_ZbxatOji2K49ARfy3HUIu3viQW7IZips8ZitubNC/s1600-h/st+john+head+hoy.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrZT1nKYu_7IZApMJV8MbAvVPHtFShOa8cJxt-MG5ZgnFRXUcWvNzxX4dtpC8TXRNef3U4O0-D5CfolSzqMpdRpsZjqxt1_pBEUj_ZbxatOji2K49ARfy3HUIu3viQW7IZips8ZitubNC/s400/st+john+head+hoy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422930145628346242" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The landscape of Hoy could be described as harsh and mountainous but the 1,134ft/346m drop down to the sea at St John's Head on the northwest corner of the island is a stunning sight. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Kirkwall - Bishop's Palace</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuzex4k0CfBzvK8Ua9eu-XzWzJ_8TY6PZ8x7uUj6sa45ooWJrwW4vYcoEH-OmSUah1y66D-DOJh_b3pXJnm_dh0aW9bGj-EZ9cus1bdx5SEMLQQ9Ce1H8q9_wjISIrlpCvtGaKbzQKwIC/s1600-h/bishop+palace.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuzex4k0CfBzvK8Ua9eu-XzWzJ_8TY6PZ8x7uUj6sa45ooWJrwW4vYcoEH-OmSUah1y66D-DOJh_b3pXJnm_dh0aW9bGj-EZ9cus1bdx5SEMLQQ9Ce1H8q9_wjISIrlpCvtGaKbzQKwIC/s400/bishop+palace.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422930433153684338" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Diagonally opposite St Magnus Cathedral in Watergate stand the ruins of the Bishop's Palace which was started in the middle of the 12th C by Bishop William the Elder to provide alternative accommodation for the cathedral's guests. It was here in 1263 that King Haakon died. The palace was restored in the late 15th C and then again in the middle of the 16th C by Bishop Robert Reid, the founder of Edinburgh University. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Kirkwall - Earl Patrick's Palace</b></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_hSRE332uXaTimetVmTQUhgrut0YyvTDr7CVerAKHyXP7hYgL-bHExZOdXQVlWWp2qnI3tIMQG4n2jekcviJStaO5S2xdNBvwwwquRgKOreGM3tA6dRKJAipm3ZeVWs938sDYK6jCl7l/s1600-h/Earl+Patrick%27s+Palace.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_hSRE332uXaTimetVmTQUhgrut0YyvTDr7CVerAKHyXP7hYgL-bHExZOdXQVlWWp2qnI3tIMQG4n2jekcviJStaO5S2xdNBvwwwquRgKOreGM3tA6dRKJAipm3ZeVWs938sDYK6jCl7l/s400/Earl+Patrick%27s+Palace.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422930582316594226" border="0" /></a></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Earl Patrick's Palace serves as one of the finest examples of 16th century Scottish secular architecture. The light sandstone structure, now a ruin, was completed in 1607 by the tyrannical Earl Patrick Stewart. The mature trees in the garden, mostly maples, were planted ca. 1840. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Knap of Howar</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNVVJ0N3mLs1MellyHaVNdpYdh4LaaNxctMbU8zu7pVzuQCTPy2FBxPTfUiQnjWnIxvvUNVqs5Hs9y4XCkr1M7WdACIyWU0UzSxsJ5rUNK6OwXBQTOYFQjKusdS-B7Yl9jS73C_bVt688l/s1600-h/Knap+of+Howar.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNVVJ0N3mLs1MellyHaVNdpYdh4LaaNxctMbU8zu7pVzuQCTPy2FBxPTfUiQnjWnIxvvUNVqs5Hs9y4XCkr1M7WdACIyWU0UzSxsJ5rUNK6OwXBQTOYFQjKusdS-B7Yl9jS73C_bVt688l/s400/Knap+of+Howar.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422932960258504162" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">To see two of the oldest stone houses in Europe will require a trip to the tiny island of Papa Westray which lies just off the northeast coast of Westray. Thought to be 5,000 years old and, like Skara Brae, protected for centuries from the elements by a thick layer of sand, they were exposed after a fierce storm. Spoons, mallets and drills made from whalebones were found during the excavations. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>North Hill Reserve</b></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">As well as many other seabirds, a huge colony of Arctic terns breed here.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Maes Howe Chambered Cairn</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw6zUqxr4Djq4a8BnuLz8pqkv4OdSNYsjwv9EZQA_HANuEwWxuoVhxYUKBYl_JnRVhYYavYRepskG72MGenO34dfBwKyDpCsNYPgxc_N4ky8WPDUfg9hKKjDzG-zo6CYWj-ppiQ78iJJ2k/s1600-h/Maes+Howe+Chambered+Cairn.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw6zUqxr4Djq4a8BnuLz8pqkv4OdSNYsjwv9EZQA_HANuEwWxuoVhxYUKBYl_JnRVhYYavYRepskG72MGenO34dfBwKyDpCsNYPgxc_N4ky8WPDUfg9hKKjDzG-zo6CYWj-ppiQ78iJJ2k/s400/Maes+Howe+Chambered+Cairn.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422932808410157378" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Nowhere provides a better insight into the Orkneys' prehistoric past than the Stone Age burial chamber at Maes Howe, situated on the road to Stromness about 9mi/14.4km west of Kirkwall. Dating from 2500 B.C., it is almost certainly the best-preserved late Stone Age site of its kind anywhere on the British Isles. The interior of this grass-covered grave is vast; it measures a full 115ft/32m in diameter. The low and narrow entrance tunnel, almost 36ft/11m long, is built from long stone slabs up to 16ft/5m in length and it leads into a main chamber and three adjoining chambers; however, as some runic inscriptions indicate, the contents were plundered by the Vikings in the 12th century. "Haakon alone took the treasure from this hill" is just one of the many examples. Some researchers maintain that Nordic crusaders sought shelter here from a storm.</span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Noup Head</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim8R_VldWg07xzTchyphenhyphen99afDH5caBktCO7d1V2LaLPkAOAgFi8n8a4cVkeiAPNoNhhNrEwwtXhyphenhyphenj0NZ2NIQmFgzvCIfchMvp-6TNr3HDRNFBKKXmAV8wlb1NJCBugwxA8nYUsrUDuCoV4dv/s1600-h/Noup+Head.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim8R_VldWg07xzTchyphenhyphen99afDH5caBktCO7d1V2LaLPkAOAgFi8n8a4cVkeiAPNoNhhNrEwwtXhyphenhyphenj0NZ2NIQmFgzvCIfchMvp-6TNr3HDRNFBKKXmAV8wlb1NJCBugwxA8nYUsrUDuCoV4dv/s400/Noup+Head.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422933292837806722" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Noup Head, some 5mi/8km in length and boasting a rocky north coast, is home to vast numbers of seabirds. The thousands of petrels, kittiwakes, guillemots and razorbills that gather here for the breeding season constitute one of the biggest bird colonies in Great Britain. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Quoyness Cairn</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvS29Q0F_LfQInA7bHQqbdp92YE2oMhGmRgvY2cKRD_p2mXVbYyUaZjZsuC1inxbuD6dubPnKxsovUjdcd-FaIsTGZl_ccuYWzW0uaLfkIADNv07uHP2z1t8flrhUQRVpTBVfGPGqkb3Rc/s1600-h/quoyness+cairn.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvS29Q0F_LfQInA7bHQqbdp92YE2oMhGmRgvY2cKRD_p2mXVbYyUaZjZsuC1inxbuD6dubPnKxsovUjdcd-FaIsTGZl_ccuYWzW0uaLfkIADNv07uHP2z1t8flrhUQRVpTBVfGPGqkb3Rc/s400/quoyness+cairn.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422933703201287234" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The sandy grassland and dunes on Sanday make excellent breeding grounds for sea birds, while Otters Wick Bay is noted for its seal colony. There are some fine bathing beaches on the island and amateur archaeologists ought not to miss the burial chamber at Quoyness which dates from 2900 B.C. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Ring of Brodgar</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJwapbvV8yqdtb8uG_Z6AxHW5qeye5saPTtHn3hJin97xpTv3A85CWyX1c97V_j8BxuJRlunSvdqQ47vqpVDvwhF-qAwScDo4BFlDn2b2ir8tMXc6K8t3miaWAE-5uz6fn_FRoFCs9uJJD/s1600-h/ring+of+brodgar.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJwapbvV8yqdtb8uG_Z6AxHW5qeye5saPTtHn3hJin97xpTv3A85CWyX1c97V_j8BxuJRlunSvdqQ47vqpVDvwhF-qAwScDo4BFlDn2b2ir8tMXc6K8t3miaWAE-5uz6fn_FRoFCs9uJJD/s400/ring+of+brodgar.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422935390766273586" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The 5,000 year old Ring of Brodgar, about 2mi/3.2km higher up from the standing stones by Loch Stenness, provides further evidence of the islands' earliest inhabitants. It remains a mystery as to what precise function these 27 (originally 60) stones performed. The monoliths, ranging in height from 6.5ft/2m to 15ft/4.5m, are arranged in a perfect circle 340ft/103.7m in diameter. On the northern side of the circle a stone bears the runic symbol for the Nordic name "Björn". The stunning interplay of water, countryside, cloud and stone pillars leaves a lasting impression. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Skara Brae Prehistoric Village</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMtvYsC-GxiTVlipQNPzGL-5eOfRK3CBvlcNsHpDfT8lTxKNcq1_7oqgOWwR-l_kBe7fePtWgrvvXSgOoB3aONtbjJqj7-UHytihm4DevuAaOWzTtbr84VgLVbZyelsXY5-lV_IC8Sr25/s1600-h/Skara+Brae+Prehistoric+Village.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 260px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMtvYsC-GxiTVlipQNPzGL-5eOfRK3CBvlcNsHpDfT8lTxKNcq1_7oqgOWwR-l_kBe7fePtWgrvvXSgOoB3aONtbjJqj7-UHytihm4DevuAaOWzTtbr84VgLVbZyelsXY5-lV_IC8Sr25/s400/Skara+Brae+Prehistoric+Village.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422936156383096130" border="0" /></a></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Skara Brae (10mi/16.3km north of Stromness) is by far the most important prehistoric site on the Orkneys. It appears to have been inhabited without interruption between 3100 and 2500 B.C. The people farmed the land and bred animals from huts constructed of flat stones and slabs which were then covered with earth. The most remarkable thing about Skara Brae is that some of the Stone Age interior furnishings have survived such as hearths, bed boxes made from stone slabs (filled with straw), a similar stone structure rather like a cupboard and the occasional niche with a drainage channel, probably a toilet. Two buildings from the first phase remain, but the rest of the houses date from the second phase. These were bigger and, unlike the earlier dwellings, the bed box was not built into the wall but integrated into the living space. The houses at Skara Brae were well preserved by a thick layer of sand until 1850 when a fierce storm exposed the ancient site. It is thought that the Stone Age community were wiped out by some natural catastrophe that laid waste their village. The skeleton of a boy and an old man have been found. The main finds are displayed in the National Museum of Antiquities in Edinburgh.</span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Westray</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2yEB1Cs2ykuUWT4SBWY9VtNUJ6v-INMgBwzveOW3x98s_sc3MDJqy-y5JGGovl2KJLfTo7HWwSXlQI9HaN4qMPCTr_gVPQoftiUG31J-EL3vxkuYKL4MKoW_3tJnyEwAaC5yzSNsfBvUF/s1600-h/WESTRAY.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2yEB1Cs2ykuUWT4SBWY9VtNUJ6v-INMgBwzveOW3x98s_sc3MDJqy-y5JGGovl2KJLfTo7HWwSXlQI9HaN4qMPCTr_gVPQoftiUG31J-EL3vxkuYKL4MKoW_3tJnyEwAaC5yzSNsfBvUF/s400/WESTRAY.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422936666331259714" border="0" /></a><br />Pierowall is the main settlement with grocery stores, accommodation, cafe, heritage museum, art gallery. The ruins of Noltland Castle can be seen nearby (now in the care of Historic Scotland). The Noup Head RSPB reserve has huge colonies of seabirds, spectacular cliffs and a lighthouse built by David Stevenson. </span><p> </p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Papa Westray</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazeg7MqhkDDqgcAnHZJ3ou_Y2OZg39A5g4v_01fIyPfeaRTsSMT81TB-aukTLkscBCPp601eW-4rIJPSGVBwOg45A47WdaJ6HKyC_19AYZm8d_6TClxU52GqtQ9T-7Dh_-GmyfQ-ema6q/s1600-h/Papa+Westray.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhazeg7MqhkDDqgcAnHZJ3ou_Y2OZg39A5g4v_01fIyPfeaRTsSMT81TB-aukTLkscBCPp601eW-4rIJPSGVBwOg45A47WdaJ6HKyC_19AYZm8d_6TClxU52GqtQ9T-7Dh_-GmyfQ-ema6q/s400/Papa+Westray.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422937043962821314" border="0" /></a><br />Dating from around 3500 BC, the Knap of Howar is the earliest standing dwelling house in north-western Europe. Other places of interest include St. Treadwell's Chapel, St. Boniface Church and a long chambered cairn.</span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Stronsay</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCNMc8b8k8g4w7aMg4b4BYZPprfr9Fi7oiF311ww-pRSRDZ7d7CQjiJxyfX_SSrwub9WA_HuAlHALGSY0GhdbCOGzhPW9vB9ZANTsk2C4Lsyxla1QE2nCyvbNfl43vMtgQ6nIsWarAkJSb/s1600-h/STRONSAY.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCNMc8b8k8g4w7aMg4b4BYZPprfr9Fi7oiF311ww-pRSRDZ7d7CQjiJxyfX_SSrwub9WA_HuAlHALGSY0GhdbCOGzhPW9vB9ZANTsk2C4Lsyxla1QE2nCyvbNfl43vMtgQ6nIsWarAkJSb/s400/STRONSAY.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422937298882509394" border="0" /></a></span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"> The Vat O' Kirbister is a natural rock arch formed by the sea - known as a 'gloop' - accessed by a cliff top walk. </span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Covenanters' Memorial</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />Off the road near Deerness. The Covenanters' Memorial was erected following the loss of two hundred souls in 1679. Found guilty of religious dissent by Charles II, they were being shipped to America to be sold as slaves, but were hit by a raging winter storm. </span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Churchill Barrier</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx1TxeqIZ00JT2RvEpxnuddD5gSW5gTaYeNrZFoq02aUl4cg6rBV9UVIle7GH2WnMDMUgpuvQ3eTOkhwOE2UCKCQQLM1WE04PjGyyv0pDpM4OBf1wC-Znu0wofpTFzsUfMm2J9A0Jj7WRc/s1600-h/Churchill+Barrier.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx1TxeqIZ00JT2RvEpxnuddD5gSW5gTaYeNrZFoq02aUl4cg6rBV9UVIle7GH2WnMDMUgpuvQ3eTOkhwOE2UCKCQQLM1WE04PjGyyv0pDpM4OBf1wC-Znu0wofpTFzsUfMm2J9A0Jj7WRc/s400/Churchill+Barrier.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422937904446682530" border="0" /></a><br />During the Second World War, Scapa Flow was protected by "block ships" - old ships which were strategically scuppered to prevent vessels entering through the channels between the string of islands in the east. When a U-boat slipped through these defences and sank HMS ROYAL OAK six weeks into the Second World War, Winston Churchill ordered the sea to be filled in between Lamb Holm, Glims Holm, Burray and South Ronaldsay. </span><p> </p> <p><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Sca</span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >pa Flow</span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQu5AHP7pYII7JUIbZChnjviMzHvGZQGQAuWcfBphyphenhyphenY8rqFBGNui1nPgThG4ucPq9gF87iIT_cTX-Mw5GwK6K2iENS_Wc6KGLtfcgTn-Dj-c222-waSeRsW3GzUFHoev0Q7HAP0IOTiqU/s1600-h/scapa+flow.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQu5AHP7pYII7JUIbZChnjviMzHvGZQGQAuWcfBphyphenhyphenY8rqFBGNui1nPgThG4ucPq9gF87iIT_cTX-Mw5GwK6K2iENS_Wc6KGLtfcgTn-Dj-c222-waSeRsW3GzUFHoev0Q7HAP0IOTiqU/s400/scapa+flow.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422938622042274482" border="0" /></a><br />Scapa Flow appears as a huge natural harbour. As well as being the resting place of HMS ROYAL OAK, whose wreck is marked by a single buoy, it is also the graveyard of the German High Seas Fleet. On Midsummer Day 1919, Admiral von Reuter gave the order to scupper his ships. Fifty-four out of seventy-four were sunk, but most were later salvaged and today only 7 remain on the sea bed.<br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Italian Chapel</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxt34HbCXOihyphenhyphenoUkWaYf6wDbmVCPPiC89Dyi_PcAUG6gH1TmQuLYrcX92gH6EP-bn-nTRQTBVLLewzKxj8LN5967VXzAU1jG2JwJ3EZr6NlPLX2F0k9ImIJDNJBQCMYwn1Wlt7qYeoRKW/s1600-h/italian+chapel+orkney+island.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 345px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxt34HbCXOihyphenhyphenoUkWaYf6wDbmVCPPiC89Dyi_PcAUG6gH1TmQuLYrcX92gH6EP-bn-nTRQTBVLLewzKxj8LN5967VXzAU1jG2JwJ3EZr6NlPLX2F0k9ImIJDNJBQCMYwn1Wlt7qYeoRKW/s400/italian+chapel+orkney+island.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422938526443350226" border="0" /></a><br />The work on the Churchill Barriers was carried out by Italian Prisoners of War who were captured in the North Africa campaign and held at Camp 60 on Lamb Holm. Far from home, they requested permission to turn a couple of old Nissen huts into a Roman Catholic chapel. Trimmed with red, the white angular façade and belfry hide the original shape of the two buildings with an exterior akin to a wedding cake. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Burgar Hill</span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0UYFlt_2bI3iJmu8LfMiQgxlGQDbHZvzAalyapa_UPNK63CuzLgEfN-ZSnexMB4ilc7g2DEP58CRhKsvfzrgqoO7hhcZyyV1Bxe7Ct0HAGBfh9g1kECg6KMMrwNt5j3H_By81khu_JwC/s1600-h/burgar+hill.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0UYFlt_2bI3iJmu8LfMiQgxlGQDbHZvzAalyapa_UPNK63CuzLgEfN-ZSnexMB4ilc7g2DEP58CRhKsvfzrgqoO7hhcZyyV1Bxe7Ct0HAGBfh9g1kECg6KMMrwNt5j3H_By81khu_JwC/s400/burgar+hill.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422938959984572690" border="0" /></a><br />At the summit are 3 experimental wind turbine generators which can be seen for miles around. Adjacent to them is an RSPB hide overlooking a small loch. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Click Mill</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />A horizontal water mill used for grinding grain in the 19th century. The name comes from the wooden bit which releases the grain between the stones: it clicks each time it goes around and lets some grain through the hopper. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Marwick Head</span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc1HRNOGXiYHRAXsfo9vqsRuMbvh8h3tc5CCfDnbPo1mNcOSyu07Kub7hMIxuHQDdTeNDbHyN8R5xVZT8sfR-XZ0i6oGlJHE4JiNHhCH5GZ2sPkY7G0TT4IoOADUsQ_4MlCnfuGocqKAVZ/s1600-h/Marwick+Head.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 273px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc1HRNOGXiYHRAXsfo9vqsRuMbvh8h3tc5CCfDnbPo1mNcOSyu07Kub7hMIxuHQDdTeNDbHyN8R5xVZT8sfR-XZ0i6oGlJHE4JiNHhCH5GZ2sPkY7G0TT4IoOADUsQ_4MlCnfuGocqKAVZ/s400/Marwick+Head.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422939254160011426" border="0" /></a><br />Climb to the top and you will find a 200-foot drop straight down into the foaming sea. Many birds nest in the nooks and crannies of the cliffs. Up here is the Kitchener Memorial. It is a tall, square tower which was erected in memory of the 600 men who lost their lives when HMS Hampshire struck a German mine and sank on 5th June 1916 while conveying Lord Kitchener and his staff to Russia. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Yesnaby Cliffs</span></p><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6a95s5UpzeUhpe2aE1mbYejud-S8TIIPw_7_9SeQDPR59CwNUMyv0WknNSAClCMhZFrPCrzEszlT1OTiJcXVf-5WIa67ERlqvr8U_I3Oh5PDt3keBN0SY_oBWBZDSVi8tZIjyImpbmtA3/s1600-h/Yesnaby+Cliffs.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6a95s5UpzeUhpe2aE1mbYejud-S8TIIPw_7_9SeQDPR59CwNUMyv0WknNSAClCMhZFrPCrzEszlT1OTiJcXVf-5WIa67ERlqvr8U_I3Oh5PDt3keBN0SY_oBWBZDSVi8tZIjyImpbmtA3/s400/Yesnaby+Cliffs.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422939662759183266" border="0" /></a><br />Formed by layer upon layer of the Middle Old Red Sandstone that makes up most of Orkney, these cliffs are a warm, ochre colour. Be prepared for strong winds coming in off the ocean.<br />Look carefully at the rocks for fossil "horse-tooth" Stromatolites, blue-green algae that grew in the lake that covered Orkney 350 million years ago. In cracks in the rock you can sometimes see tiny, blue-grey snails that live in the spray zone about fifty metres above sea level and feed on lichen.<br />On the moorland, you may see some tiny mauve flowers with yellow centres. These are rare Scottish primroses (primula scotica) found only in Orkney, Shetland and Caithness.<br />If you look south, you might just see the outline of The Old Man of Hoy, the much-photographed sea stack off the Orkney coast.<br />Walking northwards, climb over a few barbed wire fences and cross a stream. You will come to the Brough of Bigging, a ruined tower, which overlooks the sea stack known as Yesnaby Castle. </span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Sanday</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQI0dsxpoLSwzRE4iObzXisFdEp07hVngkZhmBY23uq5aUXEtjEE81uCYpcqphUJ5Fe0vJVgPVpvodejAhojAY6NQDFj4JYtwIXeBbHK09yHVUhlBHDl2EilWb3kA1s5-5NPtd74Qavmtu/s1600-h/Sanday.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQI0dsxpoLSwzRE4iObzXisFdEp07hVngkZhmBY23uq5aUXEtjEE81uCYpcqphUJ5Fe0vJVgPVpvodejAhojAY6NQDFj4JYtwIXeBbHK09yHVUhlBHDl2EilWb3kA1s5-5NPtd74Qavmtu/s400/Sanday.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422939913715998930" border="0" /></a><br />Home of Viking burial grounds and broch sites, plus the Quoyness chambered tomb dating from around 2900 BC. Lots of sandy beaches, 2 golf courses and much wartime history.</span></p> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Egilsay</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUu4TkEHj6K7BcFgcJWF-a4f2pZcHwitlswiv6_TQLEkcLFvd-N8Ka9C0xVTOALXop2x_DzMozQT91aop12RpkB26M0LRCy86bWODRvu5CboJrZdG40RGGuSs2C5DdfsjgpQTnNIdkFTU7/s1600-h/Egilsay.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUu4TkEHj6K7BcFgcJWF-a4f2pZcHwitlswiv6_TQLEkcLFvd-N8Ka9C0xVTOALXop2x_DzMozQT91aop12RpkB26M0LRCy86bWODRvu5CboJrZdG40RGGuSs2C5DdfsjgpQTnNIdkFTU7/s400/Egilsay.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422940077881306754" border="0" /></a><br />Famous for St Magnus Kirk (a distinctive round towered church built by the Vikings). A cenotaph marks the spot where Earl Magnus was murdered (the cathedral in Kirkwall was built in his memory). </span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p> <span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >Shapinsay</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhohOARvKE2-_VJkBm4EbauKnTtL_A4TKqLQits8y_2JJaLCy54VjGovT27evatNibIzubPx-hp_crvpgHoUh1HTlSDJINy7bKFeJ4OPINECkq4YigQuS0p8GW8oSBAOg2F_DQjewEofaDO/s1600-h/shapinsay.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 368px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhohOARvKE2-_VJkBm4EbauKnTtL_A4TKqLQits8y_2JJaLCy54VjGovT27evatNibIzubPx-hp_crvpgHoUh1HTlSDJINy7bKFeJ4OPINECkq4YigQuS0p8GW8oSBAOg2F_DQjewEofaDO/s400/shapinsay.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422940541825388002" border="0" /></a><br />The father of the author of Rip van Winkle was born on Shapinsay.<br />Just visible from Kirkwall is Balfour Castle which sits on Shapinsay. Built in 1847-48 it was designed by architect David Bryce. The interior owes much to a team of 30 Italian craftsmen. The castle was run as a hotel until sold in 2009 and is now undergoing refurbishment prior to re-opening as an exclusive use venue<br /><br /></span><h3><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="mw-headline" id="Transport">Transportations</span></span></h3> <h4><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline" id="Air">Air</span></span></h4> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">The main airport in Orkney is</span> Kirkwall Airport, operated by Highland and Islands Airports. Loganair, a franchise of Flybe, provides services to the Scottish mainland (Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness), as well as to Sumburgh Airport in Shetla<span style="font-size:100%;">nd.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Within Orkney, the council operates airfields on most of the l</span>arger islands including Stronsay, Eday, North Ronaldsay, Westray, Papa Westray, and Sanday. Re<span style="font-size:100%;">putedly the shortest scheduled air service in the world, between the islands of Westray and Papa Westray, is scheduled at two minutes duration but can take less than one minute if the wind is in the right direction.</span></p> <h4><span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="editsection"></span><span class="mw-headline" id="Ferry">Ferry</span></span></h4> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Ferries serve both to link Orkney to the rest of Scotland, and also to link together the various islands of the Orkney archipelago. Ferry services operate between Orkney and the Scottish mainland and Shetland on the following routes:</span></p> <ul><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Gills Bay to</span> St Margaret's Hope (operated by Pentland Ferries)</li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">John o' Groats to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Burwick,_Orkney&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="Burwick, Orkney (page does not exist)"></a></span>Burwick on South Ronaldsay (seasonal passenger only service, operated by John o' Groats Ferries<span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=John_o%27_Groats_Ferries&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="John o' Groats Ferries (page does not exist)"></a>)</span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lerwick,_Shetland" title="Lerwick, Shetland" class="mw-redirect"></a><span><span>Lerwick to Kirkwall (operated by Northlink Ferries</span></span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northlink_Ferries" title="Northlink Ferries"></a>)</span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;">Aberdeen to Kirkwall (operated by Northlink Ferries)</span></li><li><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scrabster_Harbour" title="Scrabster Harbour"></a></span>Scrabster Harbour, Thurso to Stromness (op<span style="font-size:100%;">erated by Northlink Ferries)</span></li></ul> <p><span style="font-size:100%;">Inter-island ferry se</span>rvices connect all the inhabited islands to Orkney Mainland, and are operated by Orkney Ferries, a com<span style="font-size:100%;">pany owned by Orkney Islands Council.</span></p><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> </p>QUeNny XDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05498161205871798608noreply@blogger.com0